Do I need a modem for the NBN?

Ready to make the switch to the  NBN? If Australia’s new, fast broadband network is finally available in your area, you’re probably preparing to jump to a new NBN plan. But if you’re new to the NBN, you’ll most likely have questions about the setup and installation – in particular, whether you’ll need a brand new modem to connect.

Do I need a new modem for the NBN?

You may not need a new modem, but you do need one that’s NBN-compatible. Many newer modems are already NBN-ready, especially if it’s a device that’s provided by an internet service provider, but this isn’t a guarantee – generally, you best bet is to check with your intended NBN provider at sign-up.

The most common fixed-line NBN connections – Fibre-to-the-Node and Fibre-to-the-Building – will require a VDSL2-compatible modem, which your NBN provider can supply to you at sign up. Other connection types, such as Fibre-to-the-Premises, Fibre-to-the-Curb, and HFC, use a specially-installed NBN connection box, known as a Network Termination Device, that you’ll need to pair with a modem/router or gateway.

Overall, the exact equipment you’ll need will depend on your existing hardware, the technology used to supply the NBN at your home, and your choice of NBN provider. Fortunately, that NBN provider can also advise you exactly what kind of modem or router you’ll require in order to get connected.

NBN Providers & Plans

Thinking about upgrading your NBN plan along with your modem? Check out some of the providers and plans available in the table below. The table contains affiliate links.

• NBN Sponsored Plans
• NBN50 Plans
• NBN100 Plans

The following table shows a selection of sponsored unlimited data Standard Plus Evening Speed (NBN 50), and Premium Evening Speed (NBN 100) plans on Canstar Blue’s database with links to referral partners.

Sponsored Products

NBN 100 SL Bundle BYO 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $79.99) Typical evening speed of 97Mbps Special Offer: Save $10/month for the first 6 months! $0 modem available. Plus, get 50% off SIM Plan fees. New customers only. T&C apply.

Unlimited Data/month

$79.99 Cost/month

Go to Site

NBN 50 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $85) Typical evening speed of 50Mbps Have a Vodafone phone plan? You’ll save $15/mth on Vodafone internet Get in quick on this package deal. T&Cs Apply

Unlimited Data/month

$85.00 Cost/month

Go to Site

NBN100 Liimitless 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $99.99) Typical evening speed of 97Mbps Save $10/mth for first 12 months on selected iiNet NBN plans Available to new customers only Available until withdrawn. T&Cs Apply

Unlimited Data/month

$89.99 Cost/month

Go to Site

View all nbn plans listed on Canstar Blue

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Unlimited Home Standard (NBN 50) Plans

The following table shows a selection of published unlimited NBN 50 plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost (excluding discounts), from the lowest to highest, and then by alphabetical order of provider. Use our comparison tool above to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Unlimited Home Fast (NBN 100) Plans

The table below shows a selection of published unlimited NBN 100 plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of monthly cost, from the lowest to highest, and then by alphabetical order of provider. Use our comparison tool to see plans from a range of other providers. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Modem or router: what’s the difference?

Although both pieces of equipment are now commonly combined into the one device, modems and routers aren’t the same thing.

• A modem connects directly to the internet and your service provider.
• A router connects to your modem, creates your home WiFi network, and allows multiple devices to connect to it simultaneously.

While you can use a modem to connect directly to a computer via an Ethernet cable, you won’t be able to create home WiFi without a router. In order to set up a home wireless network that can service multiple laptops, phones, tablets, and other devices, you’ll need to connect your modem to a router, or simply use a combined, 2-in-1 modem/router.

Luckily, most NBN providers offer these combination modem-slash-routers to customers, either as part of an on-contract plan or as a one-off upfront purchase. Prices will vary depending on your telco, but entry-level equipment can be priced from as little as $50-$60.

Keep in mind that if you opt for the modem/router supplied by your NBN provider, you’ll probably have a easier time with tech support in the event of a connection issue – they know how to troubleshoot their own hardware, but may struggle with equipment purchased elsewhere.

If you instead decide to buy your own modem or router, look for the following:

• VDSL2 support (for Fibre-to-the-Node and Fibre-to-the-Building connections)
• A WAN port (for Fibre-to-the-Premises, Fixed Wireless, Hybrid Fibre Coaxial and satellite connections)
• A fast WiFi classification (AC1600  or higher)

NBN plans with included modems

Although you do have the option of bringing your own choice of modem to most NBN plans, you’ll find the majority of providers are happy to supply pre-configured, ‘plug and play’ equipment to customers. If you do go for a telco-supplied modem, you’ll won’t need to worry about checking your device’s specifications and compatibility.

You’ll also find many telcos throw in modems/routers free on 12 or 24-month contracts. However, depending on your plan, you may need to return your device if you cancel your contract or switch providers.

Below is a selection of NBN plans with included modems across all four speed tiers.

Image: EKKAPHAN CHIMPALEE/Shutterstock