Bridge Taps on NBN Connections

FAQs About Bridge Taps

What is a Bridge Tap?

A bridge tap, also called "star wiring," is a point where a single cable splits into multiple branches to connect additional sockets. This setup enables more locations in your home for plugging in phones or a modem.

Why Were Bridge Taps Common Before the NBN?

Before the introduction of the NBN, most Australian homes used Telstra’s copper network. Multiple sockets were convenient, allowing phones and ADSL modems to be connected in different rooms—for example, a phone in the kitchen, another in a bedroom, and a modem in the office.

Why Do Bridge Taps Cause Issues with the NBN?

Bridge taps can create problems for NBN services because they interfere with signal transmission in copper-based technologies. Some of the issues include:

• Signal Interference: The wiring disrupts the internet signal.
• Lower Speeds: Internet speeds are reduced.
• Frequent Dropouts: Connections may become unstable.

Think of it like a river splitting into smaller streams—when all but one stream is blocked, the water flows more efficiently. Similarly, a single, uninterrupted cable provides better internet performance.

Are Bridge Taps an Issue for All NBN Connection Types?

No, bridge taps are only a concern for NBN connections that rely on copper wiring, such as Fibre to the Node (FTTN), Fibre to the Building (FTTB), and Fibre to the Curb (FTTC).

To find out which NBN technology you’re using, visit nbnco.com.au, enter your address, and check your connection type.

How Can I Check If My Home Has a Bridge Tap

If you suspect a bridge tap, you can test your sockets

1. Plug your modem into each socket in your home, one at a time.
2. Wait 10 minutes for the modem to establish a connection.
3. Check if the internet works at each socket.
   1. If the internet works on multiple sockets, a bridge tap is likely present.
   2. If the internet works on only one socket, the bridge tap may have already been removed.

How Is a Bridge Tap Removed?

A licensed technician can adjust your home’s wiring to remove unnecessary branches, ensuring the main line connects directly to a single socket. This helps deliver faster and more reliable internet.

What Should I Do If I Suspect a Bridge Tap?

If you experience slow speeds or frequent dropouts and suspect a bridge tap, contact us for further testing. If necessary, arrange for a licensed technician to inspect your wiring and fix any issues.

Addressing a bridge tap can significantly improve the performance of copper-based NBN connections like FTTN, FTTC, and FTTB.