BYO nbn Modem Routers – Use Your Own Modem with MATE’s nbn Plans

Home & Business Internet Blog | MATE | 24 May 2023

In today’s fast-paced digital world, a reliable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for work, entertainment and communication. Choosing the perfect nbn modem router can make all the difference in ensuring seamless connectivity and optimal performance whether you’re browsing, working from home, or gaming online. In this comprehensive guide, we will outline the top BYO nbn modem routers available in Australia and highlight the benefits of opting for MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem for a hassle-free and enjoyable online experience.

Top BYO NBN Modem Routers

As you search for the best nbn modem router for your needs, it’s essential to consider factors such as compatibility, performance and ease of use. While MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem is a fantastic option, we understand that some Aussie internet users may be interested in exploring BYO alternatives. Here are some of the best BYO nbn modem routers on the market:

TP-Link Deco X20

The TP-Link Deco X20 is an advanced whole home mesh Wi-Fi 6 system that offers fast and reliable internet connectivity for a seamless experience. Key features of the Deco X20 include:

• Wi-Fi 6 technology: The Deco X20 supports Wi-Fi 6, providing speeds up to 1,800 Mbps—1,201 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, enabling faster connections for multiple devices.
• Enhanced coverage: The Deco X20 uses BSS Color and Beamforming to deliver stronger and clearer whole home Wi-Fi signals, covering up to 2,200 ft² (1-pack). The system can be expanded by adding more Deco units for larger coverage.
• AI-Driven Mesh: The Deco X20 employs AI-Driven Mesh technology to optimize network performance by learning your network environment, client quality, and user behaviours.
• Seamless roaming: TP-Link Mesh allows Deco units to work together, forming one unified network that provides seamless Wi-Fi as you move around your home.
• Connect more devices: With OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology, the Deco X20 can support over 150 devices simultaneously without compromising performance.
• Reduced lag for gaming and video chatting: Wi-Fi 6 technology allows for stable and responsive connections, ensuring an optimal gaming and video chatting experience.
• TP-Link HomeShield: The Deco X20 features enhanced security, including WPA3 encryption, Parental Controls, Antivirus, and Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure a safer online experience.
• Easy setup and management: The Deco app walks you through the setup process step-by-step and offers easy network management from your smart device.

It’s worth mentioning that the TP-Link Deco X20 is compatible with other Deco models, allowing you to create a mesh network that suits your specific needs. It is also available in a DSL version, which means that it will work with copper-based nbn technologies like Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and Fibre to the Building (FTTB).

Asus DSL-AC88U 

The Asus DSL-AC88U is an AC3100 dual-band ADSL/VDSL gigabit Wi-Fi modem router with advanced features and versatile connectivity options. Key features of the Asus DSL-AC88U include:

• Ultra-fast Wi-Fi: The DSL-AC88U utilizes NitroQAM™ (1024-QAM) technology to deliver a combined speed of up to 3167Mbps, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as gaming, 4K streaming, and large file transfers.
• Future-proof DSL compatibility: The router supports a wide range of DSL standards, including ADSL, ADSL 2/2+, VDSL2, and the latest G.fast broadband connections, ensuring compatibility with various internet service providers.
• Total flexibility with DSL or Ethernet internet connections: The DSL-AC88U offers multiple ways to connect to the internet, with a choice of DSL for an ADSL/VDSL connection or an Ethernet port for fibre or cable-based modems. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for future ISP upgrades.
• Parental controls: The router features robust parental controls that allow you to manage and monitor internet usage, ensuring a safe online experience for your family.

By choosing the Asus DSL-AC88U, you can enjoy a high-speed, stable, and flexible internet connection that caters to your specific needs and is ready for future upgrades.

D-Link DVA-2800

The D-Link DVA-2800 is a versatile Dual Band Wireless AC1600 Gigabit ADSL2+/VDSL2 Modem Router with VoIP capabilities, offering a comprehensive solution for high-speed Internet access in your home or small business. This all-in-one device provides built-in phone ports for VoIP calls and a full Gigabit Ethernet interface for optimal connectivity. Key features of the D-Link DVA-2800 include:

• Built-in ADSL2+/VDSL2 Modem: Ensures universal compatibility with all DSL services, eliminating the need for an additional modem.
• AC1600 Wi-Fi: Delivers high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity with speeds of up to 1600Mbps, enabling seamless HD video streaming, fast file transfers, and lag-free video chatting.
• Dual Band: Offers two Wi-Fi bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for better device connectivity and reduced interference.
• NBN/UFB Ready: Equipped with VDSL functionality, a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port, and VLAN tagging, the router is ready for NBN in Australia and UFB in New Zealand.
• VoIP Enabled: Connect up to two phones to the router to make VoIP calls over the Internet (VoIP account settings from your service provider required).
• Gigabit Ethernet: Features 1 Gigabit WAN port and 4 Gigabit LAN ports for high-speed wired connections.
• Two USB 2.0 ports: Enables file sharing across your network.

With its advanced security features and easy setup process, this modem router is a reliable and future-proof choice for your home or small business.

The Benefits of MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem

While the above-mentioned BYO nbn modem routers offer various features and capabilities, MATE’s TP-Link VX230v Modem stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free and reliable internet connection. This modem router is pre-configured and delivered directly to your door, ensuring a seamless plug-and-play experience. With MATE’s modem, you can enjoy:

• Guaranteed compatibility with any nbn technology
• Pre-configuration for a plug-and-play experience
• Delivers internet speeds of up to 350Mbps
• Dual-band WiFi 6 (AX1800) offering:
  • 1201Mbps via 5GHz
  • 574Mbps via 2GHz
• Enhanced wireless experience with multiple device support
• Robust hardware interface:
  • 1× DSL port 
  • 1× Gigabit WAN port 
  • 3× Gigabit LAN ports 
  • 1× FXS port
  • 1× USB 2.0 port
• Supports VoIP calls
• simply by connecting the device to their existing telephone set
• Advanced security options, including WPA/WPA2/WPA3-PSK

By opting for MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem, you can rest assured that your modem router is compatible and in working order, and MATE will assist with any necessary configuration.

Choosing the Right Modem Router for Your Needs

When deciding on the best modem router for nbn, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure you make the right choice. By examining these aspects carefully, you can confidently select the best nbn modem router for your home or office, whether it’s a BYO option or MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem.

Compatibility

It’s essential to ensure that the modem router is compatible with your specific nbn technology. Different types of nbn connections include Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), Fibre to the Node (FTTN), Fibre to the Curb (FTTC), Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial (HFC), and fixed wireless. Each type of connection may require different modem router specifications, so always check for compatibility with your nbn service.

Performance

The modem router’s performance is critical for ensuring a smooth internet experience. When evaluating performance, it can be helpful to consider the following:

WiFi Standard: Look for modem routers that support the latest WiFi standards, such as WiFi 6 (802.11ax), which offers improved speed, range and efficiency over older standards like WiFi 5 (802.11ac).

• Speed: Make sure the modem router’s speed aligns with your internet plan’s speed. For example, if you have a high-speed nbn plan, it’s important to choose a modem router capable of delivering those speeds to your connected devices.
• Range: Consider the size of your home or office and the modem router’s range capabilities. If you have a larger space or multiple floors, you might need a more powerful modem router or even a WiFi extender to ensure reliable internet access throughout the area.
• Capacity: Assess the modem router’s capacity to handle multiple connected devices simultaneously. This is especially important if you have several devices in your home or office that require a stable internet connection for activities like gaming, video streaming and video conferencing.

Features 

When choosing the best nbn modem router, look for additional features that can enhance your overall internet experience:

• Gigabit Ethernet Ports: These ports allow you to connect devices directly to the modem router using an ethernet cable, ensuring a stable and fast connection. This is particularly beneficial for devices that demand high-bandwidth or low-latency connections, such as gaming consoles and desktop computers.
• USB Ports: USB ports enable you to connect external storage devices or printers to the modem router, making sharing resources across your network easy.
• Advanced Security Options: Security is crucial for safeguarding your network from unauthorised access and potential cyber threats. Look for modem routers with robust security features such as WPA3 encryption, parental controls, and guest networks.
• Quality of Service (QoS): This feature allows you to prioritise specific devices or applications on your network, ensuring that they receive the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance. Most recent modem routers are equipped with this feature.

Ease of Use

Choose a modem router that is easy to set up and manage. User-friendly interfaces, comprehensive setup guides, and helpful support resources can simplify the installation and configuration process. Additionally, consider modem routers that offer mobile apps for convenient network management and monitoring from your smartphone or tablet.

Price

Evaluate your budget and weigh the costs and benefits of different modem routers to find one that provides the best value for your needs. While opting for the cheapest option may be tempting, remember that investing in a high-quality modem router can save you money in the long run by providing a more reliable and efficient internet connection.

The Importance of WiFi Standards

As our reliance on wireless internet has grown, so too has the need for faster, more reliable, and more efficient WiFi standards. WiFi standards have evolved with each new generation to meet the increasing demands of modern connected devices and users. Here, we clue you into the different WiFi standards—WiFi 4, WiFi 5 and WiFi 6—and discuss their key features and benefits.

WiFi 4 (802.11n)

WiFi 4, also known as 802.11n, was introduced in 2009 and marked a significant step forward in wireless networking technology. It brought several improvements over previous standards, including increased data rates, better range and more efficient use of the radio spectrum. Some key features of WiFi 4 include:

• Support for multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) technology enables the simultaneous transmission of multiple data streams, resulting in better performance and capacity.
• The use of both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands provides more flexibility and less interference.
• Improved indoor range up to 70 meters and outdoor range up to 250 meters.
• Supports 20 MHz and 40 MHz bandwidths for data rates up to a theoretical maximum of 600Mbps.
• Compatible with earlier WiFi standards (WiFi 1, 2, and 3).

Despite its advancements, WiFi 4 is now considered outdated, with newer standards offering even better performance and efficiency.

WiFi 5 (802.11ac)

WiFi 5, or 802.11ac, was introduced in 2014 and brought further improvements to wireless networking. It focused primarily on the 5 GHz frequency band, which is less congested and provides more channels for data transmission. Some key features of WiFi 5 include:

• Theoretical data rates up to 6.93 Gbps, a significant jump from WiFi 4, allowing for faster internet connections and better support for high-bandwidth activities like video streaming and online gaming.
• The first WiFi standard to support multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) technology enables the simultaneous transmission of data to multiple devices, improving overall network performance and capacity.
• Wider channel bandwidths, up to 160 MHz, allow for faster data transfer rates and reduced interference.
• Operates on the 5 GHz frequency band.
• Slightly extended range, up to 80 meters, with three antennas.
• Backward compatible with previous WiFi standards.

WiFi 5 has become the standard for many homes and businesses, providing a solid foundation for modern wireless networks.

WiFi 6 (802.11ax)

The latest WiFi standard, WiFi 6 or 802.11ax, was introduced in 2019 and represents a significant leap forward in wireless technology. It has been designed to address the growing demands of today’s connected devices and increasingly congested wireless environments. Some key features and advantages of WiFi 6 include:

• Data rates up to 9.6 Gbps, providing support for even the most demanding internet activities.
• Introduced Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) for more efficient bandwidth use and simultaneous data delivery to multiple devices.
• Enhanced power efficiency, with features like target wake time (TWT), which enables devices to schedule when they will wake up to receive data, reducing power consumption and extending battery life for connected devices.
• Better performance in congested environments, with improved signal quality and reduced interference, making WiFi 6 well-suited for densely populated areas and buildings with many wireless networks.
• Operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.
• Enhanced MU-MIMO technology, allowing devices to communicate with up to 8 devices at the same time.
• Supports beamforming, 1024-QAM, longer OFDM symbols, and up to 8 spatial streams for improved efficiency, capacity and performance.
• Backward compatible with previous WiFi standards.

As the most advanced WiFi standard to date, WiFi 6 offers numerous advantages over its predecessors. With the latest technology on its side, investing in a WiFi 6-compatible modem router ensures that you are future-proofing your home or office network for years to come.

Conclusion

Choosing the right modem router for your nbn connection is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration of compatibility, performance, features, ease of use and price. By keeping these factors in mind when exploring the best nbn modems on the market, you can confidently make an informed choice that suits your specific needs.

While the BYO nbn modem routers we’ve listed offer some good choices for those who value their internet connection, it’s important to remember that you will be responsible for ensuring compatibility and configuration. MATE’s Ultra WiFi TP-Link VX230v Modem, on the other hand, offers guaranteed compatibility, pre-configuration and the support of an award-winning internet service provider to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable online experience.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is an nbn modem router, and how does it differ from a regular modem router?

An nbn modem router is a device specifically designed to work with Australia’s National Broadband Network (nbn). It combines the functions of a modem, which connects to the internet service provider’s (ISP) network, and a router, which distributes the internet connection to your connected devices. Some regular modem routers may not be compatible with nbn technologies, making it essential to choose an nbn-ready modem router for optimal performance and connectivity.

Can I use my existing modem router for my nbn connection?

You might be able to use your existing modem router for your nbn connection if it is nbn-ready and compatible with your specific nbn technology (e.g., FTTP, FTTN, or fixed wireless). It’s essential to check the compatibility of your device with your ISP. However, upgrading to a newer modem router can provide better performance, features and support for newer WiFi standards.

What is the difference between WiFi 5 and WiFi 6?

WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and WiFi 6 (802.11ax) are two different WiFi standards that offer varying levels of performance and capabilities. WiFi 6 is the newer and more advanced standard, providing faster speeds, greater efficiency and improved capacity for handling multiple devices simultaneously. Upgrading to a WiFi 6 modem router can enhance your internet experience, especially if you have numerous connected devices or require high-bandwidth activities like gaming or streaming.

How can I improve my WiFi signal strength and coverage?

Several methods can help improve your WiFi signal strength and coverage:

• Place your modem router in a central location, free from obstructions and interference-causing devices like microwaves and cordless phones.
• Adjust the antennas (if applicable) to optimise signal coverage.
• Upgrade to a more powerful modem router with better range and performance.
• Consider using a WiFi extender or mesh WiFi system to expand your WiFi coverage in larger homes or multi-story buildings.

How do I set up my BYO nbn modem router?

Setting up a BYO nbn modem router typically involves the following steps:

1. Connect your modem router to the nbn connection box or wall socket using an ethernet cable.
2. Connect the modem router to a power source and switch it on.
3. Connect your computer or other devices to the modem router using an ethernet cable or WiFi.
4. Access the modem router’s configuration interface, usually through a web browser, and follow the setup wizard or manual instructions provided by your ISP or the modem router’s manufacturer.

For detailed instructions on how to set up a specific modem router device, check out our byo modem/router setup guides.

Why should I consider MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem over a BYO modem router?

MATE’s Ultra WiFi Modem offers several advantages over a BYO modem router:

• Guaranteed compatibility: MATE’s modem is nbn-ready and compatible with any nbn technology, eliminating compatibility concerns.
• Pre-configuration: The modem is pre-configured and delivered to your door, making setup a plug-and-play experience.
• Dedicated support: At MATE, we offer expert support for configuring and troubleshooting our modem, ensuring a hassle-free internet experience.

While many excellent BYO modem routers are available, MATE’s Ultra WiFi TP-Link VX230v Modem provides added peace of mind and a seamless connection experience.

How can I ensure my modem router is secure?

Securing your modem router is essential to protect your network and connected devices from potential threats. Here are some steps you can take to improve your modem router’s security:

• Change the default administrator username and password for your modem router’s configuration interface to something unique and strong.
• Enable WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if WPA3 is unavailable) for your WiFi network and create a strong, unique password.
• Regularly update your modem router’s firmware to ensure you have the latest security patches and improvements.
• Disable remote management features and UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) if not needed.
• Enable guest networks for visitors to restrict access to your main network.

What are Gigabit Ethernet ports, and why are they important?

Gigabit Ethernet ports are network connections that support data transfer speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gbps). These high-speed ports are essential for wired connections to devices like desktop computers, gaming consoles or media servers that require fast and reliable internet access. Gigabit Ethernet ports can significantly improve performance and reduce latency for high-bandwidth activities such as online gaming, video streaming and large file transfers.

What factors should I consider when choosing between different nbn plans?

When choosing an nbn plan, consider the following factors:

• Speed: nbn plans offer varying speed tiers, so select a plan that meets your household’s internet usage requirements.
• Data allowance: Some plans have data limits, while others provide unlimited data. Choose a plan that caters to your monthly data consumption.
• Contract length: Consider whether you prefer a month-to-month or long-term contract with a potentially lower monthly fee.
• Price: Compare the costs of different plans and providers to find the best value for your needs.
• Customer support: Evaluate the quality of customer support provided by different ISPs, as this can be crucial in resolving any issues that may arise with your internet connection.

How do I know if my internet connection is performing optimally?

To assess your internet connection’s performance, you can conduct regular speed tests using online tools like Speedtest.net or Fast.com. These tests measure your connection’s download and upload speeds and latency. Compare the results with your nbn plan’s advertised speeds to ensure you’re getting the expected performance. If you consistently experience slower speeds or other issues, consider contacting your ISP for assistance or upgrading your modem router to improve performance.

How often should I upgrade my modem router?

The ideal frequency for upgrading your modem router depends on factors such as advancements in technology, changes in your internet usage patterns, and the device’s performance over time. Generally, it’s a good idea to consider upgrading your modem router every three to five years to benefit from improved performance, features and security. However, if your current device continues to meet your needs and supports the latest WiFi standards and security protocols, you may not need to upgrade as frequently.

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