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If you’re yet to connect to the National Broadband Network (nbn) there are two things you need to know:
1) You’ll most likely have to connect to the nbn if you haven’t already, and
2) Connecting to the nbn network is easier than you might think
In this guide, we take you through the step-by-step process of how to set up an nbn internet connection in your household. Let’s get started.
Why do I have to connect to the nbn?
Once the nbn has been rolled out in your area you should receive a written notice from your phone and internet provider, as well as NBN Co, stating that all existing phone and internet services relying on copper lines (e.g. ADSL) will be cut off in 18 months time. Luckily this is plenty of time to migrate over to nbn.
However, if you reside in a satellite NBN or fixed wireless suburb, your existing services that operate through a landline or satellite connection will not be switched off. Unlike other fixed-line areas, there’s no obligation to switch to an nbn connection if you live in a fixed wireless or satellite area.
Alternatively, if you reside in a fixed-line area and do not want to make the move to the nbn, you still have the option of using mobile broadband for WiFi internet access.
Connect to the nbn in 3 easy steps
1. Know your nbn internet connection type
When it comes to nbn connections, it’s not a one size fits all situation per se. Depending on where you live in Australia, you could have any one of 7 different nbn technologies running to your home.
Why does this matter? Some connection types are capable of faster maximum download speeds than others, so it pays to know which one you have so you can pick an nbn plan to suit your particular situation.
For a thorough rundown of the 7 different types check out our previous blog here.
But for now, here’s a brief look at what nbn speed tier you can expect:
- Fibre to the Curb (FTTC): nbn Home Fast/Fast Pro (potentially greater)
- Fibre to the Node (FTTN): nbn Home Fast/Fast Pro
- Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): All nbn speeds
- Fibre to the Building (FTTB): nbn Home Fast/Fast Pro (potentially greater)
- Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC): nbn Home Fast/Fast Pro
- Fixed Wireless: Fixed Wireless Plus
2. Choose an internet service provider
Next, you’re going to want to compare internet providers and the nbn plans they offer, asking yourself:
- Do I need an internet-only nbn service or an internet + home phone line bundle?
- How much internet data do I need?
- What download speed do I want?
At MATE:
- You can bundle a home phone service with any MATE nbn plan for unlimited local, national and mobile calls, or keep it simple with an internet-only plan
- All our nbn plans come with unlimited data starting from $55/month
- You can check what nbn connect type your residence has and get an estimate of how long it will take to get you nbn connected with MATE simply by searching your address
3. Get ready for installation
Now that you’ve decided on an nbn plan, you may require a visit from an nbn technician to install the necessary nbn equipment. If your home has never been connected to the nbn and there is no existing nbn hardware inside or outside the residence, you may need a technician.
So the installation can go as smoothly as possible, it’s best to follow these steps:
- Make sure someone (18 and over) is home during the day of the installation. Installation usually only takes between 2 and 4 hours.
- Know where you want the hardware (nbn connection box, nbn utility box, etc.) to be set up. Somewhere central, accessible, well-ventilated and proximate to a power point is recommended and the technician will let you know on the day where it can be installed.
Let’s talk modem/routers. Depending on which provider you decide to sign up with, you may be able to bring your own modem/router. However, there are some nbn providers that make it compulsory to use their own brand of modem/router, which may come free when you sign up for 12 or 24-month contracts.
The upside to opting for a telco-supplied modem/router is that the device will already be pre-configured and ready to ‘plug and play’. After all, not all modem/routers are compatible with all nbn connection types, so it’ll be up to you to make sure that your BYO modem is fitted to your connection type.
Sign Up With MATE
If the nbn has been rolled out in your area and you’re looking to make the switch, why not make the switch with MATE? We have a range of unlimited data plans and an award-winning Aussie support team to make the transition as smooth as possible. Get in touch with MATE today!
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