FTTN (Fiber to the Node)

A fiber-optic connection that extends to a nearby hub, with copper wiring completing the last segment.

What is FTTN?

FTTN, or Fiber to the Node, is a hybrid fiber delivery method where fiber reaches a neighborhood node or street cabinet, and the remaining connection to homes or buildings is completed using existing copper phone lines. It’s commonly used by ISPs to offer faster internet without full fiber upgrades.

FTTN vs FTTH vs FTTB

Feature FTTN FTTH FTTB
Download vs Upload Speed Unbalanced (e.g. 300/10) Equal (e.g. 300/300
Fiber Reaches Neighborhood node Direct to home Direct to commercial building
Final Leg Copper (DSL) Fiber Ethernet or coax
Performance Moderate High High
Commonly Used For Residential areas (legacy) Modern residential installs Multi-tenant business spaces

Performance and Limitations

FTTN can provide faster speeds than DSL, but it has significant limitations:

  • Speed and reliability decrease the farther you are from the node
  • Upload speeds are often much lower than download
  • Not suitable for homes with high bandwidth demands or smart device ecosystems
  • Higher latency than full fiber connections

Where It’s Commonly Used

FTTN is still common in areas where ISPs have not yet invested in full fiber rollouts. It’s often used in suburban or rural neighborhoods where upgrading every home to fiber would be too costly or time-consuming.

FAQs

Speeds vary but typically range from 25 Mbps to 100 Mbps download. Upload speeds are usually much lower due to copper line limitations.

Technically yes — but only partially. It includes fiber to a nearby node, but the last leg uses copper, which limits performance compared to full fiber (FTTH)

In some areas, yes — if your ISP offers fiber build-outs. You may need new wiring and installation to bring fiber directly to your home.

Slower upload speeds, higher latency, and inconsistent performance depending on your distance from the node.

Run an address check with your ISP or examine your modem type. ISPs often indicate the connection type in your plan details or tech support documentation.

FTTH (Fiber to the Home)
Geo-Blocking