Compare nbn Providers

The NBN (or National Broadband Network), is a modern broadband infrastructure that is installed across Australia to replace the older, existing network that is presently used to access to the internet.

The old copper network that was once the only way to access the internet has been replaced by a technologically-superior alternative. The new network combines fibre optics, satellite, and fixed-wireless technologies.

The NBN is also known to offer much faster network speeds than what Australians have been using previously with the older ADSL, ADSL2, ADSL2+ network and more traditional methods that provide home broadband plans.

Want to see if your home is eligible for an NBN plan? Call our internet experts today and we’ll help you find an NBN plan that suits you and your family.

Switching to NBN can be worth it if you find an NBN plan that offers fast, reliable speeds at a fair price. This can depend on where you live and the type of NBN connection that your home has access to.

Connection types play an integral role in choosing the right type of internet connection. For example, if your home has an FTTN connection type, you may not have access to fast speeds. In this case, home wireless internet may be a better option.

If you’re wondering what type of internet connection is right for you, call our internet experts today.

Currently, these are the primary internet options available on the market:

• NBN

• 3G

• 4G

• 5G

• ADSL

• Satellite Internet

• Mobile Internet

• Fibre Optic

With so many different NBN plans currently offered in the market, it’s difficult to define “the best” because there are unique features and benefits that each plan has to offer. For example, some plans come with bundle packages while others offer discounts on third-party streaming services. Do you need a superfast or ultrafast NBN speed? You’ll need an NBN provider that, most importantly, offers this NBN speed tier and can reliably give you consistent speeds.

The most effective way to find an NBN plan is by speaking to one of our internet consultants.

Many internet service providers offer bundling options that include services like home phones, entertainment streaming services, mobile plans, and in some cases, electricity. Bundling can offer significant value and the benefit of convenience, but it’s also essential to compare the total cost of your bundled package versus signing up as a standalone service. Here are some of the main benefits of bundling:

Additional Value: Bundle packages often come with discounts, making it cheaper than signing up for a service individually. Bundled packages can include internet, phone, and TV services at a lower overall cost.

Convenience: Managing multiple services such as home phone, mobile phone, electricity, and TV through one provider is much easier when you’re only dealing with one point of contact.

Added Features: Bundle packages can include extra features such as higher speeds, trial periods for subscription services, and more.

Promotions and Offers: Bundled plans often come with promotional offers like free setup, discounted equipment, or free subscription periods to streaming services. These promotions can provide additional value and give you a chance to try out the service before signing up for it long-term.

Only One Bill: Having one bill for all of your utilities and services can reduce the hassle of managing multiple payments and can help keep your finances organised.

• Contract Length: Consider whether you prefer a no lock-in contract for flexibility or a longer-term contract for potentially better rates.

• Early Termination Fees: Understand any penalties for cancelling your contract early. These fees can sometimes be significant.

• Setup and Equipment Costs: Check for any upfront costs for setup, activation, or equipment rental/purchase.

• Promotional Terms: Be aware of any introductory offers that might change after a certain period. Make sure you know what the standard rates will be once the promotion ends.

Yes, there are providers that cater specifically to rural and remote areas. 

Satellite Providers: Companies like Sky Muster offer satellite internet services that cater to remote locations where other types of internet connections are not available. Satellite services are important for regions that are beyond the reach of traditional wired connections.

Fixed Wireless Providers: Certain providers offer fixed wireless services, which use radio signals to deliver the internet to rural areas. In some areas, this can be a more reliable option than satellite service.

Businesses that are looking for dedicated internet solutions can find a variety of different services from popular internet providers like Optus, Telstra, and TPG.

Dedicated Business Plans: These plans offer higher speeds, a more reliable connection, and business-centric features like static IP addresses. They often come with service level agreements (SLAs) that guarantee uptime and performance.

Service Level Agreements (SLAs): SLAs are unique contracts offered by business providers that essentially guarantee internet uptime and performance, with penalties for service disruptions. SLAs provide businesses with assurances about the reliability and quality of their internet service.

Managed Internet Solutions: Many telcos will offer comprehensive solutions that include network management, security, and support, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations. Managed services can also include data backup, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity services.

Scalability: If you’re looking to scale up your service as your business grows, many providers will offer solutions such as adding more bandwidth or additional lines. Internet providers that offer scalable solutions can help businesses adapt to changing needs without significant disruption.

VoIP and Communication Services: Many internet providers offer VoIP services and other communication tools that provide integrated solutions for voice and data needs.

Yes. With the online gaming scene as popular as it is, you’d expect internet providers to have a variety of services tailored to meet gamers’ specific needs. Instead of dedicated gaming plans, telcos will offer fast NBN speed plans with specific features.

When you sign up for a new NBN plan, you’ll need a compatible modem/router in order to connect to the internet. In addition to the standard equipment, many NBN providers will offer optional upgrades for consumers who have more demanding needs. Premium routers, available at an additional cost, can provide better coverage, a more stable internet connection, and even advanced functionalities like mesh networking capabilities, which help eliminate dead spots in larger homes. For larger properties or households with thick walls, telcos may also offer Wi-Fi extenders or mesh network systems. These devices work to provide your home with a strong and consistent Wi-Fi signal via points that are installed around your home.

Many providers have professional installation services to set up your equipment to ensure everything is functioning correctly, which can be useful for users who aren’t comfortable with setting up their equipment or simply do not have the time. If you prefer to install the equipment yourself, telcos will usually have detailed guides and customer support to assist you. While some providers include the cost of the modem/router in their plans, others may charge an additional fee or offer the equipment on a rental basis. It’s important to review your prospective NBN plan’s terms and conditions to determine whether you will encounter any equipment fees.

The process of switching providers is a relatively straightforward process, but there are several common mistakes that can create unnecessary problems for you and your family.

NBN providers will have terms and conditions that dictate certain fees. Before switching, review your current contract for any early termination fees or penalties. Many telcos will impose charges if you cancel your service before your current contract ends, which can essentially offset any savings you expect from the switch. You’ll also want to check your new plan for hidden fees such as setup charges, modem costs, or any additional services that might be required in order to sign up for the plan. Sometimes low advertised rates can be misleading once all the fees are totaled up.

Make sure your new plan meets your household’s internet usage needs. Consider the required download and upload speeds for activities like streaming, gaming, or working from home. Also, check data limits to avoid throttling or additional charges.

If you’re signing up for a new service, plan your transition carefully to avoid gaps in your internet service. Make sure your new service is activated before or immediately after your current service is disconnected. This coordination prevents downtime and ensures continuous connectivity.

Check if your current equipment (modem/router) is compatible with the new provider’s service. Some providers require specific hardware, and using old equipment can lead to connectivity issues or additional costs for new devices. A common feature that providers will offer is a BYO modem option, which essentially means that you can use your old internet equipment – barring it’s compatible with your new provider.

If you sign up for a long-term contract, it goes without saying that it can lock you in for an extended period of time. Flexibility is important if your circumstances change or if you aren’t happy with the provider. The downside to opting out of your contract is that you’ll likely incur fees.

Be aware of promotional pricing that increases after the initial benefit period. It’s important to understand the regular rate after the promotional period ends and if it fits your budget.

Once your new service is up and running, test the internet speed and performance immediately to make sure it meets the advertised and expected standards. There are several online tools that will show your download and upload speeds.

It’s recommended to compare NBN plans providers annually or whenever your contract is about to end. This helps you stay informed about new deals, technology advancements, and potential savings.

If you’re experiencing outages, slower-than-normal speeds, poor customer service, and high bills, you may want to consider comparing NBN plans to see if you can find a more cost-effective plan. Even if you’re happy with your current provider, there may be a more affordable internet solution, but this requires you to compare NBN plans.

If you haven’t switched in a while or simply don’t have the time to compare NBN plans, call our internet experts at Internet Monster today. We’ll take care of the comparison shopping for you, and help you get the best deal on an internet plan that’s right for you.

To minimise downtime when switching NBN providers, it is important to plan ahead. Coordinate the activation of your new NBN connection with the disconnection date of your current service so there are no gaps in your internet access. Check with your new telco about the estimated installation and activation times, and arrange for the switch to occur on a day when you can be without internet for the shortest possible time. Additionally, having a backup internet solution, such as a mobile hotspot, which is offered by popular providers like Optus, can help you stay connected during the transition.

Seniors and pensioners may have separate needs when it comes to the internet. It’s important to consider this as you don’t want to pay too much for a plan that offers too high of an NBN speed that’s actually needed. Internet service providers also offer promotional deals or discounts on your internet bill if you have an eligible seniors card. It’s recommended to shop around and compare NBN plans to see how much you can save.

While senior discounts and deals can be nice, another option is to pass on the benefits altogether and instead sign up for a cheap NBN plan with a slower speed. This might suit your household that doesn’t require high internet usage.

Compare NBN plans for seniors today with Internet Monster and see how our team of experts can help find the right type of NBN plan for you at a fair rate.

When your NBN connection is initially set up, an NBN technician will come to your home and install NBN equipment both inside and outside your home. Internal equipment will be installed in a location where:

• there is an accessible power outlet within 1.5 meters

• there are no wet surfaces nearby (i.e. bathrooms, sinks, etc.)

• there is easy access

FTTB and FTTN connections generally won’t require a technician to install equipment at your property – although this may vary based on whether your home is connected – so you may only need to plug your modem into the socket. If your home has multiple phone sockets, consider installing the modem at the central socket so it’ll be in the main area where the internet is used. Doing so will reduce the number of barriers that your WiFi signal needs to bypass in order to reach the device that you’re connecting to the internet.

The internet is a system of computer networks, or a network of networks, that connect via servers to share and store information – and sometimes talk directly to users at other computers. Broadband is a general term that describes the technology used to connect your household to the internet with connection types such as NBN, fibre, home wireless, and more.

Finding out whether the NBN is available in your area is an extremely first step before switching providers or signing up for a new plan. One of the best ways is to call a service like Internet Monster. We’ll enter your address and can obtain detailed information about the type of NBN technology available at your location, such as FTTP, FTTN, or HFC, as well as the estimated timeframe for availability if you haven’t had an NBN connection before. Understanding the specific NBN technology in your area is important because it influences the speed and reliability of your internet connection.

At Internet Monster, we pride ourselves on being able to support each of our customer’s individual requirements with their specific NBN comparison needs, so we can provide everyone that we help with all of the information and guidance that is required to effectively shed a little more light and clarity on some of the effective NBN ready options that are available to you in your area.