English: This schematic shows how various fibre-optic communication delivery systems vary with regards to the distance between the optical fibre and the end user. The building on the left represents the central office; the building on the right represents one of the buildings served by the central office. The dotted rectangles represent separate living or office spaces within the same building.

Key

• FTTN: Fibre to the node, also called fibre to the neighbourhood or fibre to the cabinet (FTTCab).
• FTTC: Fibre to the curb, also called fibre to the kerb (FTTK).
• FTTB: Fibre to the building.
• FTTH: Fibre to the home.

For simplification purposes, this schematic eliminates certain details. Notably absent are distribution points from which the cables would branch out to other buildings.