NBN TC4 is the standard broadband class used by most Australian homes and small businesses. In this article, we explain what TC4 means, how it works, its pros and cons, and whether it's right for your business. Learn how BIT365 can help you make the most of your NBN connection or upgrade to a higher-grade solution if needed.
When it comes to connecting your business to the internet in Australia, the National Broadband Network (NBN) offers multiple connection types designed for different needs. One of the most common options is NBN TC4 — short for Traffic Class 4. But what does it actually mean, and how does it affect your business’s internet performance?
In this guide, we’ll unpack NBN TC4, explore how it works, and help you determine whether it’s the right fit for your business.
Before diving into TC4 specifically, it’s helpful to understand that the NBN uses “traffic classes” to categorise the type of connectivity services delivered over its network. These classes define how different types of traffic are prioritised and delivered.
NBN TC4 is the default and most commonly used traffic class for standard broadband services in Australia — both for homes and small businesses. It provides best-effort internet access, meaning speeds and performance may vary depending on network congestion and other factors.
TC4 is designed for general internet usage such as:
It is the connection type you'll get with most NBN plans from major ISPs unless you specifically request a business-grade alternative like TC2.
TC4 operates on a shared network model, meaning your connection shares bandwidth with other users in your area. This can lead to fluctuations in performance — especially during peak periods like evenings or working hours.
Each TC4 service is delivered with two key speed components:
TC4 is available across most NBN access technologies, including:
The actual performance will depend on your physical infrastructure and service provider provisioning.
For many small to medium-sized businesses, NBN TC4 is more than sufficient — especially if your operations are cloud-based and involve moderate bandwidth usage.
Ideal if your business:
Not ideal if your business:
In those cases, you may consider NBN TC2, enterprise Ethernet, or fibre services — which BIT365 can also help configure and manage.
While TC4 is a cost-effective and flexible solution, it does come with limitations:
For businesses where downtime equals lost revenut, having a cyber incident response plan in place is critical - especially if reluing on a shared connection like TC4.
If you're using TC4 for your business, working with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) like BIT365 can ensure you're getting the most out of your connection - here's why IT support is essential for business of all sizes.
We can help:
✅ Check your business’s typical bandwidth usage
✅ Understand your peak-hour internet demands
✅ Confirm what speed tiers are available in your area
✅ Compare options with business-grade NBN or fibre
✅ Speak with an MSP to design a network that fits your goals
NBN TC4 is the go-to choice for most Australian small businesses looking for a reliable and affordable internet connection. While it’s not the most premium option available, it often delivers excellent value when paired with the right support and optimisation.
If your business is growing or you need more stable, consistent performance - or you're thinking about protection your operations with cybersecurity insurance - BIT365 can assess your needs and help you transition to a more advanced connectivity solution.
BIT365 provides tailored internet and networking solutions for Australian businesses. Whether you’re sticking with NBN TC4 or upgrading to a high-performance connection, we can help you choose, configure, and manage the right solution.
Contact us for a consultation today.
