NBNs HFC to finally get Gigabit Speeds | Dirt Report

What is changing for NBN HFC users

NBN HFC uses an existing cable network, such as infrastructure originally associated with pay television or cable services, for the final part of the NBN connection. The technology has been described as older, and NBN is no longer continuing its rollout, but existing HFC connections can still provide high-speed internet.

When the initial 1,000Mbps download and 50Mbps upload profile was introduced on NBN HFC, a speed setting was applied across the network. This limited the sustained speed to around 750Mbps, while still allowing a short-term burst of up to approximately 970Mbps.

According to the information discussed in the video, NBN Co notified its customers that this cap would be removed from 1 May 2024. The change is intended to let eligible connections use the full speed potential of their line rather than fluctuating between the sustained rate and the short burst capability.

Who will benefit from the change

The update is aimed at Home Ultrafast customers who are already using the 1,000Mbps download plan. Customers on lower-speed plans will not be affected simply by the cap being removed, as the change does not automatically move them to the 1,000Mbps service.

The available speed will also depend on the retail service provider. The video notes that some providers may not guarantee the full 1,000Mbps during busy periods, so the wholesale change does not necessarily mean every customer will see a constant 1,000Mbps result at all times.

The practical benefit is that eligible HFC customers should no longer be held back by the previous 750Mbps sustained information rate. Their experience will still depend on the plan, provider and conditions affecting the connection.

Why the cap was in place

The HFC network had experienced connectivity and compatibility problems, particularly during the earlier rollout of high-speed services. The speed profile was part of the settings applied to HFC connections while those issues were being managed.

The video also refers to difficulties obtaining HFC modems during the chip shortage between 2020 and 2022. NBN had reportedly held only a small number of replacement devices at one point, which made repairs or replacements more difficult for some customers.

Although the cap is being removed, the HFC network is not expected to receive continual upgrades. The change is presented as a final enhancement to existing HFC services rather than a sign of an ongoing HFC rollout or major expansion.

Does HFC still need to be replaced with fibre

The removal of the cap means an eligible HFC connection can deliver very fast speeds without automatically requiring a move to a fibre connection. The video suggests there may be little reason for a customer on HFC to upgrade to fibre solely to obtain faster service, although individual circumstances and available plans may differ.

The earlier short-term burst capability was limited to a brief period each day. The video questions how useful that temporary boost was for normal activities, such as downloading a work file or PDF, compared with having access to the connection’s full potential more consistently.