Terminology » Fiber Optic » FTTC vs. FTTN vs. FTTH vs. FTTP: A Detailed Comparison

FTTC vs. FTTN vs. FTTH vs. FTTP: A Detailed Comparison

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This article breaks down the differences between FTTC, FTTN, FTTH, and FTTP, all terms related to broadband network architectures designed to deliver voice, video, and data services. Let’s dive in!

FTTC - Fiber-to-the-Curb

  • Full Form: Fiber to the Curb
  • In FTTC, the fiber optic cable runs to a distribution point located near the “curb,” serving multiple customers.
  • Individual subscribers connect to this distribution point via twisted-pair or coaxial cable.
  • Data rates for each subscriber vary depending on their distance from the distribution point.
  • FTTC distribution points are typically within a radius of about 300 meters.

FTTN - Fiber-to-the-Node

  • Full Form: Fiber to the Node
  • Similar in concept to FTTC, but with a key difference: the fiber termination point (the “node”) is further away from the subscriber.
  • FTTN nodes can be up to 1.5 km away from the subscriber’s premises.
  • The fiber runs to a cabinet that serves a neighborhood.
  • From the cabinet, customers are connected using coaxial cable or twisted-pair wiring.
  • Again, data rates are affected by the distance between the customer and the node.

FTTH - Fiber-to-the-Home

  • Full Form: Fiber to the Home
  • With FTTH, the fiber optic cable runs directly from the operator’s equipment all the way to the subscriber’s home or office.
  • This eliminates the need for copper-based connections for the “last mile,” resulting in significantly higher bandwidth capabilities.
  • FTTH networks are broadly categorized into two types:
    • AON (Active Optical Network)
    • PON (Passive Optical Network)

FTTP - Fiber-to-the-Premises

  • Full Form: Fiber to the Premises
  • FTTP is a general term that encompasses any architecture where fiber optic cable reaches the boundary of the customer’s property.
  • The final connection within the premises might still use copper wires or coaxial cable, depending on the specific implementation.
  • FTTP can be further classified based on how far the fiber extends into the subscriber’s property.