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How to connect to the NBN in 4 simple steps
We’ll help you get your NBN connection up and running in no time.
Key takeaways
- Checking your address for NBN readiness and technology type is the crucial first step.
- Installation varies by NBN technology type and is usually free for a standard connection.
- NBN activation can take from one day to several weeks depending on your property's readiness.
Getting connected to the NBN
Connecting to the NBN for the first time? It's a simple process that we'll break down for you in 4 simple steps.
- Check your address is NBN ready
- Compare NBN plans and sign up
- Prepare for your NBN connection
- Set up your modem and Wi-Fi
Step 1: Check your address is NBN ready
First things first. Check if your property can connect to the NBN and what technology is available to you.
The type of NBN connection you have can influence your internet speeds and the plans you can choose.
Pop in your address to get started.
Select the exact address from the list:
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If, for some reason, you're unable to connect to the NBN at your address, there are still alternatives for you to get online, such as home wireless internet or mobile broadband.
Step 2: Compare NBN plans and sign up
If you're at step two it's safe to assume you can connect to the NBN and know what technology type is available at your address.
Now for the fun bit. Compare NBN plans from a range of providers to find your perfect fit.
This is the step of the process where you have the most control over your NBN performance.
Click the blue button to start comparing plans. If you're unsure what to consider when choosing a plan or provider, the guide below the table will sort you out.
Step 3: Prepare for your NBN connection
After signing up for a plan that fits your budget, your new provider will take care of the installation part of the process.
They'll let you know if a technician needs to visit your property to finalise things, but if you already have an NBN connection, you can skip ahead.
Step 4: Set up your modem and Wi-Fi
Once the installation is complete, all that's left to do is set up your modem and Wi-Fi to game, browse, work and doom scroll to your heart's content.
In most cases it's as simple as plugging your modem into a power socket and connecting it to an NBN cable connection.
Your NBN provider will provide you with detailed instructions on how to set up your modem. Some even have "how to" videos to help you through visual aids.
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How much does it cost to switch to NBN?
Standard installation is usually free after the NBN is available in your area.
The only exception is if you happen to be in a new development or "greenfields" area, when you'll have to pay a one-time $300 fee.
There may also be extra charges if your home needs any wiring or cabling upgrades, or if you want something beyond a standard installation.
Or, if you want to upgrade to a faster type of NBN connection such as from FTTN to FTTP.
Costs vary depending on the type of property and the work needed, but expect to pay in the thousands for this.
"I've been with Telstra for 12+ years and 2 years ago, I tried to change to a cheaper provider. I was sold a great package by Optus, but when it came to connecting, Optus realised they didn't have a line in my street. They gave me the option of either going wireless or paying to install a connection line, which is very expensive. I ended up going back to Telstra. Always make sure you check the plan is available at your address before you leave your provider!"
Frequently asked questions
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New house, no landline phone, do we need to get a line installed to get nbn? Using net gear 4gx wifi for internet at the moment.
Hi Dori,
Thanks for your question.
With NBN connection, you don’t need to have a home phone line. NBN broadband plans can be provided with no need to keep an active telephone service. Check out our guide on a landline for internet connection for more details.
Cheers,
Liezl
Was wondering, we are in Perth and fixed line connection option is available. I have lived in my house for 3 years the premises is 20yrs old. Have phone points but I’ve never had it connected so don’t know house phone number and whether or not the line still works. This is a semi rural area.
Hello Wolfcast,
Thank you for your inquiry.
We need to do a serviceability check on your address to confirm whether the line in your house is still active. You don’t need to worry about the phone number as your provider will tell you if you can use the old number or get a new one, also if you can do self-installation or you need a technician.
After confirming that there are services available, you can choose on the list of providers by weighing your household needs. You may click “Go to Site” green button of your chosen provider to proceed with your application.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Jonathan
I currently have ADSL with active PSTN line. I also have 2 VOIP numbers with VOIP Handsets. How will switching to NBN impact the VOIP? I need to be able to keep the existing numbers and may also look to getting services from a different provider.
Hi Dominic,
Thanks for reaching out to us. Please note that we are not affiliated with any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.
In most cases, ISP can bring your existing telephone number over to the NBN network. You can keep your existing numbers and it will not affect your VOIP.
If you already own a modem/router, then we suggest that you check with its manufacturer to see if it is capable of supporting NBN broadband.
Typically your address can be upgraded to NBN broadband with little to no downtime. More often than not you can continue to use your existing services until your new NBN equipment has been installed and your service has been activated.
Remember, Moving to NBN broadband will not necessarily cancel your existing broadband and phone services. Once you’ve upgraded, please contact your existing provider to ensure your old services are cancelled, otherwise you may continue to be billed for them.
Hope this information helped.
Cheers,
Rench
Why are they only installing FTTN in my area instead of FTTP like many other areas have already?
Hi Terry!
I can sense your disappointment with this development. :(
NBN Co is the one who decides which type of technology will take place in a certain area. However, they are offering the NBN Technology Choice program should you want to pursue FTTP. Here are some of the NBN technology choice programs you can check.
If you think FTTP request is too expensive, we have some tips on how you can improve your FTTN speeds.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Jonathan
With the NBN is it one house at a time that gets turn on, or is it that a whole area has to be connected before it is turn on.
Hello Rockey,
Thank you for your question.
Once NBN services become available in your area, it is time to migrate your existing landline phone and internet service over to the new network. Your current service provider may contact to inform you that the NBN has arrived at your location or nbnâ„¢ will notify you by mail for details about the upgrade process. Basically, NBN has to setup first within your area before you can avail their service.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold