Wireless Routers

A wi fi router and modem are both technologies that you need to get online. However, there are some major differences between these two products.

Modem

A modem is one of the essential components of getting you connected to the internet. It physically connects multiple devices to the internet through a separate wi fi router. A modem is also known as a gateway, as it can operate as a gate between your internal home network and the internet network.

Wireless Router

A wi fi router attaches to your modem to create a wireless network. A router is responsible for distributing your internet connection to different devices like your computer, smartphone, and other systems in your home.

In some cases, you may have one hardware device instead of two separate boxes. Typically branded as a modem router, this device can double as a modem and a router. Many ISPs will bundle a modem router with your internet plan.

There are four factors that can affect the overall speed and strength of your wireless network:

• Router and modem type

• Internet speed

• Proximity to the modem and router

• The number of users on the network at the same time

Your wi fi router and modem need to have the capabilities to handle high internet speeds. Choosing the right model can have an impact on the stability of your network connection.

The proximity and range of your modem and router to the device you are connecting to can affect the speed and strength of your internet connection. This can also be affected by objects that can cause interference, like microwaves, cordless phones, or even walled partitions of your home. Try placing your router in the center of your home for the best coverage. You can also purchase a WiFi range extender, WiFi booster, or USB WiFi adapter to maintain a strong signal if you cannot move your router. Or, mesh systems can expanded coverage in spacious households.

With so many different models currently on the market, separating an average router from a great one can be difficult. However, there are some key considerations that play a role in how effective a wi fi router can be in your home.

A wi fi router can be a costly investment, but it is also worth it – especially if you rely on the internet for work or entertainment. Your ideal router should be a future-proofed model with a compatible fit, have a streamlined installation process, and be priced fairly. It should also match the internet speed that you want to run. For example, if you have multiple users on your local wireless network and need the fastest speeds, you may want a gaming router with full support for all NBN technologies, wide-reaching fast WiFi, and a high max speed limit. Some routers also come with wi fi mesh system expandability, which is great for users with several dead spots around the house.

It’s important to remember that a higher-priced router won’t always give you the best value. The “best” wi fi router is a device that can handle your family’s internet needs. If you’re on a standard NBN 50 plan, you might only need a dual-band router instead of the more advanced gaming router models. Choosing between different wi fi bands can save you more money while still being able to handle your internet needs.

Getting a modem from your internet provider comes with the convenience of not having to go out and purchase one yourself. You can also get one for free* when you sign up for an eligible NBN plan, like the WiFi Gen 2 modem from Optus. This type of modem offers Optus 4G backup, the latest WiFi 6 technology, and fast speeds – and it comes bundled with an eligible Optus plan.

Telcos also offer different internet equipment, like a wi fi mesh system, which can offer greater WiFi coverage. Users struggling with WiFi dead spots in their homes can pair their router with different points to increase their WiFi range. Aussie Broadband currently offers its NG20MESH gateway modem/router, which can be added to an eligible NBN plan.

It’s important to note that going with a premium brand like Optus, Telstra, or TPG can offer more benefits than a smaller provider. If customer service is something you value, premium telcos can offer different support options from real live agents. On top of this, their catalogue of plans are extremely competitive when compared to the rest of the market and can come with unique add-ons like 4G backup or entertainment add-ons.

*customers must sign up for an eligible NBN plan. If you leave your contract early, you may need to pay a fee. See your provider for details.

Unless you have a modem router, the only way your modem can transmit a WiFi signal to the devices in your home is by connecting a separate modem and wi fi router to the wi fi network.

A WiFi extender, also known as a WiFi booster or WiFi repeater, amplifies the WiFi signal emitted from your wi fi router and acts as a bridge to improve your coverage area. It works by rebroadcasting the signal on a different channel than the one that your router is using.

Wi Fi extenders will only extend your Wi Fi signal at the point where they are placed. This means that if you place an extender at the edge of your Wi Fi network, you’ll essentially extend that signal strength – which could be one bar. This is why placement is extremely important with extenders.

The following modems/routers are nbn-registered products that can be used for FTTN/FTTB connections:

The following is a list of advanced modems/routers that offer faster routing chipsets:

If you believe you’re paying more than you should for internet, it never hurts to compare the market and see if you can get a better deal. You should also consider whether your current internet plan is still meeting your needs. For example, if you have a monthly data limit, you might want to consider an unlimited mobile broadband plan. Or, if your current speed isn’t enough, you may want to switch to a plan that offers a faster maximum download speed.

There are several factors that can influence what makes an internet plan, the best for you and your family. From price point to speed, the best internet plan out there depends on your needs. If you’re looking to switch providers or internet plans, you might want to ask yourself the following questions:

• How many people are in my household?

• What will I be using the internet for?

• Do I need faster speeds for gaming and streaming?

• How much am I willing to spend for internet?

• How many devices will be connected to the internet at the same time?

By answering these questions, you’ll get a clearer picture of what you need versus what you think you need. We highly recommend speaking to one of our internet connection consultants before choosing an internet plan so you don’t overpay or haphazardly choose a plan that offers too much or too little for you.

It’s easy! Call Internet Monster today, and we’ll help you compare internet plans with our network of providers so you can find a fair deal. Best of all, our comprehensive service is 100% free to use, so you can find a plan that best suits your needs. Remember, switching internet plans shouldn’t be stressful and time-consuming. Internet Monster is here to service your home or business and take care of the administrative work so you can focus on the important things in your life.

When comparing the best internet plans, the three most common factors you’ll need to consider are price, speed, and availability. But there are other important considerations that you should keep in mind that could get you a better deal overall on a plan.

Discounts, credits, and incentives: Many telcos offer a wide range of special deals like credits, one-off discounts, and benefits to new customers.

Bundle discount: If you want to bundle your phone, internet, and even your electricity, you may receive a discount from your provider of choice.

Add-ons & extras: Telcos will offer new customers add-ons or extras like a free month’s access to streaming services, video games, and more.

Need a new internet connection? Looking for the cheapest internet deals? Call the experts at Internet Monster today to see what deals our partnered providers can offer you and your family.

Typical Evening Speed is the period of peak internet usage, usually between 7 pm and 11 pm, when most people are online. Most internet users complain about low NBN connection speeds during these evening hours. The reason for this is that most people use the internet around these hours, which results in network congestion and slower speeds – even the best internet providers will encounter limited speeds. The typical evening speed of an NBN plan is generally seen as how fast it works during these hours. Evening speeds tend to differ considerably from one internet provider to another, so it’s worth looking at this when choosing an NBN plan.

If you want to learn more about typical evening speeds or want a comprehensive broadband comparison solution, we recommend giving us a call at Internet Monster, and our specialists will help find you the best deal we have available.

Call us today, and we’ll check to see if you are eligible for an NBN plan. We can also help provide you with an assortment of free options and solutions to get an internet connection that’s right for you.

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 you may need to effectively choose an internet plan that’s right for you.