Ready to make the switch to the NBN? If Australia’s 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 new modem for the NBN.
In this guide:
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. Most 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, your best bet is to check with your intended NBN provider at sign-up.
The most common fixed-line NBN connections – Fibre to the Node (FTTN) and Fibre to the Building (FTTB) – 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 (FTTP), Fibre to the Curb (FTTC), 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 and 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 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..
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1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $65.90) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps
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Unlimited Data/month |
$65.90 Cost/month |
Go to Site |
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1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $69) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps
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Unlimited Data/month |
$69 Cost/month |
Go to Site |
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1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $63.90) Typical evening speed of 50Mbps
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Unlimited Data/month |
$63.90 Cost/month |
Go to Site |
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 an 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)
Are all modems NBN compatible?
Unfortunately, not all modems are NBN compatible, with the newer technology and improved capabilities of the NBN requiring sturdier hardware to support it. As a result, if you’re hanging on to an old modem, you may need a new one to work with the NBN.
Is my modem NBN compatible?
For most NBN connections, you’ll need a modem that is labelled as ADSL2+, VDSL or VDSL2, which you can usually see on the back of the modem. For certain NBN connection types, such as NBN Wireless or FTTP, you’ll also need a modem with an Ethernet WAN port.
As a quick tip, your provider will often offer a modem with your NBN plan, or you can simply look for a modem or router with a ‘NBN Ready’ sticker attached. You can also check NBN Co’s website for a full list of device requirements.
What type of modem do I need for the NBN?
How fast and reliable your internet speed is can be dependent on your modem. If you live in a larger household with high-internet needs, you may need a modem with more features and capabilities than the run-of-the-mill, such as dual-band technology or a larger WiFi range. Additionally, it’s worth looking at the ‘standard’ of the modem, which is identified by the letter at the end of the number pattern ‘802.11’. If you need a lot from your modem, it’s recommended to look for a model labelled as 802.11ax or WiFi 6, as this is generally considered the highest standard.
You’ll also need to factor in what connection type you’ll be using, as certain connection types, such as the faster FTTP connection, generally need more capable hardware to reach the higher speeds.
What modems are NBN compatible?
Below are some of the NBN compatible modems that are available in the market, with some available to purchase outright, or can be selected when you sign up to a new provider or NBN plan. Manufacturers that make NBN compatible modems include:
- ASUS
- Belkin
- Billion
- D-Link
- Draytek
- Huawei
- Linksys
- Netcomm
- Netgear
- Sagemcom
- Technicolor
- TP Link
- ZTE
Can I buy an NBN compatible modem outright?
Yes, you can purchase an NBN compatible modem through a third-party retailer like an electronics store, with some NBN providers also offering the option to purchase a modem without also purchasing an NBN plan. However, as most providers bundle a modem in with your NBN plan, some may find it more convenient to simply get a new modem when they sign up to the NBN.
How much do NBN compatible modems cost?
NBN compatible modems/routers can cost anywhere between $60 and over $1,000 outright, depending on the model, brand and features available.
How to set up your NBN compatible router or modem
Setting up your modem-router can prove a tricky process, particularly if you’ve never done it before. However, there’s little difference between setting a regular modem and a NBN compatible modem, although this depends on your connection type, with connection-specific instructions often coming with your new modem.
However, to help you get the most out of your NBN compatible modem, NBN Co advises that:
- Routers should be at least two metres off the ground for a good signal distribution.
- They should be placed at the centre of the house for even distribution, while windows should be avoided.
- NBN Co additionally notes that the further away routers are from other electronics equipment the better, as they will be avoiding interference. This includes devices with radio signals such as microwaves and TVs.
- Routers should also be regularly updated with the latest firmware. NBN Co says that users will need to switch their device off for the updates to take effect. For this reason it is worthwhile rebooting routers on a regular basis.
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 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.
Unlimited Premium Evening Speed (NBN 100) Plans
The following table shows a selection of published unlimited Premium Evening Speed (NBN 100) plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost, 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 a referral partner.
Unlimited Standard Plus Evening Speed (NBN 50) Plans
The following table shows a selection of published unlimited Standard Plus Evening Speed (NBN 50) plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost, 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 a referral partner.
Unlimited Standard Evening Speed (NBN 25) Plans
The following table shows a selection of published unlimited Standard Evening Speed (NBN 25) plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost, 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 a referral partner.
Should I buy an NBN compatible modem or router?
Depending on the NBN connection type used at your address, you’ll at the very least need an NBN-ready router. If you’re moving to a new connection type (for example, you’ve moved home), or you’re upgrading to the NBN for the first time, you’ll likely need a new modem that’s compatible with the technology at your address. If all else fails, your NBN provider can advise you which devices will work with your service, or offer to add a pre-approved modem to your NBN plans.
By ensuring that the equipment being used is optimised for high-speed broadband, you will be doing all you can to make the most of your new NBN service. Through a mixture of optimizing your router location and set-up, as well as choosing a capable modem/router, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying some great NBN speeds.
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