As storm season approaches in Australia, it’s crucial for businesses to take proactive steps to protect their networks and NBN connections from potential lightning strikes. With the right precautions, you can minimise the risk of damage and ensure your operations remain uninterrupted. Here’s a simple guide tailored to the common NBN connection types: FTTC, HFC, and FTTN.
Understanding the Risks In Storm Season
Storm season in Australia typically spans from October to April, bringing with it thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and lightning strikes. These weather events can cause power surges that may damage electronic equipment, including your network infrastructure.
Storm IT Solutions General Precautions
- Surge Protectors: Invest in high-quality surge protectors for all your electronic devices. These devices can help absorb excess voltage during a power surge, protecting your equipment from damage.
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): A UPS can provide backup power during outages and protect against voltage fluctuations.
- Regular Backups: Ensure all critical data is backed up regularly. Use cloud storage solutions to keep your data safe offsite.
Specific Steps for NBN Connection Types
1. Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
- Disconnect Devices: During a storm, disconnect your NBN connection device from the power outlet and unplug the Ethernet cable from your router.
- Use Surge Protectors: Ensure that both your NBN connection device and router are connected to surge protectors.
- Grounding: Check that your NBN connection device is properly grounded to prevent electrical surges from causing damage.
2. Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
- Isolate the Coaxial Cable: Use an isolator on the coaxial cable to prevent surges from entering your premises.
- Ethernet Surge Protectors: Install Ethernet surge protectors between your HFC modem and router.
- Disconnect During Storms: Unplug the HFC modem and router from power outlets and disconnect the coaxial cable during severe weather.
3. Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
- Surge Protection for Phone Lines: Use surge protectors designed for phone lines to protect your FTTN connection.
- Disconnect Equipment: Unplug your modem and router from power outlets and disconnect the phone line during storms.
- Grounding: Ensure that your modem and other network equipment are properly grounded.
Additional Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your network equipment to ensure it is in good working condition.
- Professional Advice: If you are unsure, you can consult with our teams or an electrician to ensure your setup is adequately protected against lightning strikes.
- Insurance: Consider insurance that covers electrical damage to your equipment.
By following these storm preparation steps, you can safeguard your business network and NBN connections from lightning strikes and other storm-related damage. Don’t leave your business exposed to the risks of storm season—contact us today for a consultation on the best surge protection and UPS systems for your network needs. Our team is here to help you stay safe and prepared!
