Over the past decade the NBN has revolutionalised internet connectivity in Australia, providing households with more consistent internet connections. However, in areas where a fixed-line NBN connection isn’t available, some homes are still connected to legacy ADSL internet. In this article, Canstar Blue explores ADSL internet and if it is still an option for you.
What is ADSL?
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a type of internet connection that uses copper telephone wires to deliver data to devices. The phone system and ADSL internet can operate simultaneously, so you don’t need to use your phone line for internet access.
The term ‘asymmetric’ in ADSL’s name refers to the unbalanced nature of its upload and download speeds, as the download line requires more capacity than the upload line.
What are the ADSL connection types?
There are three levels of ADSL connections: ADSL1, ADSL2, and ADSL2+. ADSL2+ is the fastest and most reliable, while ADSL1 is the oldest version of the technology, and the slowest.
What is the speed of ADSL?
ADSL speeds are easy to check – you can run a quick and free internet speed test via Canstar Blue. Generally, ADSL speeds cap at around 24 megabits per second (Mbps), but they typically range between 8-10Mbps. The further your device is from the telephone exchange, the slower the speeds. If you’re experiencing issues with speed, this could be the reason.
Is ADSL cheaper than the NBN?
Because ADSL is now a niche product, you can expect to pay more for an ADSL plan than for an NBN plan offering comparable speeds. A typical NBN 25Mbps plan costs between $50-$70 per, while you can expect to pay $60-$100 for ADSL.
Compare NBN offers
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.. 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $65.90) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $69) Typical evening speed of 100Mbps 1 Month Contract (1 month min. cost $63.90) Typical evening speed of 50Mbps 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. 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.
Unlimited
Data/month
$65.90
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited
Data/month
$69
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited
Data/month
$63.90
Cost/month
Go to Site
Unlimited Home Standard (NBN 50) Plans
Unlimited Home Fast (NBN 100) Plans
Is ADSL still available in Australia?
ADSL is no longer widely available in Australia. In areas where the NBN has been rolled out, ADSL services are being discontinued.
Most Australians have already switched to an NBN plan for their home phone and internet. The exception to this is in some rural locations, where fixed-line NBN connections haven’t been built.
Eventually, ADSL will be phased out completely, and customers still using it will need to look for an alternative, such as NBN satellite, fixed wireless, or home wireless broadband.
How do I get an ADSL connection?
Although ADSL has been largely phased out in Australia, some existing ADSL users may still be on legacy plans from providers such as Optus, iiNet, Vodafone or TPG. However, none of these telcos offer ADSL to new sign-ups.
If you are interested in an ADSL plan, you will need to contact a telco provider in your area, to see if it’s an option they still provide.
What is the alternative to ADSL?
Signing up for an NBN plan is the clear and most effective alternative to an ADSL internet plan. However, if NBN fibre isn’t an option at your address, other forms of internet that deliver fast, reliable data include home wireless, and satellite services, such as NBN satellite and Starlink.
Is ADSL worth it?
The NBN has made ADSL a redundant technology. Even where still available, ADSL offers slower speeds and less value than other internet options, such as home wireless and satellite services.
If you’re considering an ADSL plan, a telco provider will most likely direct you to home wireless broadband (i.e. 4G or 5G home internet) as an alternative.
Ultimately, the NBN – or other private fibre broadband networks where available – will deliver much better performance than ADSL.
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