Despite the advancements brought about by the NBN, fibre to the node (FTTN) performance comes with notable shortcomings compared to other fibre-optic deployment methods. Unfortunately, the last mile connection in FTTN networks has limitations in terms of data transmission speeds, resulting in slower broadband speeds for end-users.

Beyond performance shortcomings, FTTN networks also experience inconsistent service quality, reduced upload speeds, limited capacity for future technology advancements, and less efficiency than full-fibre symmetrical services.

Fibre to the node’s limitations

Regrettably, all too often businesses on FTTN technology face limitations in speed and reliability, encountering dropouts at crucial times and impacting essential daily operations that may include important data transfers and video conferencing.

Furthermore, fibre also offers scalability, accommodating expanding bandwidth demands effortlessly. As businesses grow, so does their need for data transmission, and fibre can easily adapt to these requirements without costly infrastructure upgrades.

So when the NBN fibre upgrade program started it provided us with a compelling market opportunity to drive innovation in our fibre product portfolio, designed to help businesses reap the true benefits of high-speed broadband.

To refresh the business internet experience and break new ground, Superloop has introduced four new business fibre plans, offering organisations of all sizes a flexible range of tailored full-fibre options to support their specific needs.

As businesses expand their requirements evolve, often demanding increased bandwidth speeds for heightened reliability. And amid increasing economic pressures, fibre has never been more crucial for business growth and sustainability. It is essential for workplace productivity, positive employee experience, and ultimately, providing an acceptable experience for customers.

Loss of billable hours

For example, frequent outages and slow connectivity can impact end of month accounting priorities, and for businesses in professional services, a loss of billable hours. That is why reliable fibre truly constitutes the lifeblood of business, especially as more organisations utilise cloud-based services and applications. After all, the modern business is now fast becoming a digital business, where employee and customer interactions take place online.

When I talk to customers, many tell me that dropouts and downtime are not only frustrating, but waste time and lead to a potential loss of income.

In addition, reliable fibre enhances security by minimising data loss and reducing vulnerability to cyberattacks.

Small and medium businesses are the lifeblood of innovation and stand to gain immensely from faster connectivity. To support them, we’re levelling the playing field by affording them the same advanced tools and features as larger businesses, bolstering their competitiveness.

Fibre is the cornerstone of digital business, and helping more businesses access affordable and flexible fibre connectivity that facilitates high-speed data transmission, support emerging technologies, and nurture collaboration is vital.

Fibre is indispensable to modern businesses and our economy, and should be more accessible.

Fibre isn’t just a technological advantage. It’s also a strategic necessity for businesses that want to remain competitive and agile in today’s digital landscape.

Dean Tognella is group executive, business and wholesale at Superloop