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Most Internet plans come with unlimited data these days. But if you're still getting throttled or charged fees - it's time to compare.

Jonathan Choi
Jonathan Choi

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Matt Sayer
Matt Sayer

Last updated:

Vodafone NBN Premium Month-to-Month from Vodafone
Promoted
  • Special offer: Save $20- pay $75/mth instead of $95. Ends 21.04.2020
  • Month-to-month plan (no contract)
  • 83Mbps typical evening speed
  • Unlimited data
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Why unlimited internet?

Not so long ago, capped internet plans were the de facto means of connecting to the Internet. Monthly data quotas meant you had to be cautious with your downloads and uploads lest you exceed your limit and suffer a "throttled" (slowed down) connection – or worse, excess data fees.

Nowadays, unlimited data plans are by far the norm, with many broadband providers only offering unlimited plans.

Unlimited broadband plans are great for households with more than 2 internet users, and also provide:

  • No speed penalties for exceeding a monthly download quota
  • No peak and off-peak browsing times. Enjoy unlimited downloads 24/7
  • Peace of mind with a set billing amount every month
  • Browse at your regular plan speed for the entire billing period without limits

How to compare

Speed

Your Internet speed will depend on the provider you sign up with, the type of connection you have and the infrastructure available in your area. As a result, it is important to check what plans are available at your home address.

Once you've figured out your options, here are the key factors that will affect the speed of your new Internet plan:

  • Type of Internet connection. The type of technology and network access method you choose are critical in determining your Internet speed. The types of connections and considerations include:
    • NBN. The three main connection types used in the National Broadband Network (NBN) are fixed-line, fixed wireless and satellite. Each supports a range of NBN speed tiers with differing maximum speeds. Fixed-line connections offer the widest range of speed tiers to choose from, while fixed wireless and satellite connections are limited to slower tiers.
    • ADSL/ ADSL2+. ADSL connections are greatly affected by the distance from your premises to your nearest exchange. Under optimal conditions, an ADSL2+ connection can deliver speeds comparable to some NBN plans, but maximum speeds drop dramatically the further away you are from your local exchange.
    • Cable. Cable connections are capable of hitting speeds on par with high-speed NBN connections but are only available in select areas of the country.
  • Network congestion. All network connection types mentioned above can experience slower speeds depending on the number of people accessing an Internet provider's service at a single time. The busiest times for Internet browsing in Australia are usually between 7pm and 11pm, and as such this is typically the time when Internet speeds are at their slowest. Most NBN providers advertise the typical evening speeds their customers experience during this period.
  • Modem and equipment. Your connection speed could be limited if your modem is out-of-date or the performance of your computer is being affected. If you are using an old modem, you can often purchase a new one directly from your Internet provider or from an electronic retailer. Alternatively, you can read our comparison of top NBN routers to find one that will meet your needs.
  • Wi-Fi signal. While Wi-Fi networks are convenient, they can also be significantly slower than connecting directly to your modem or router with an ethernet cable. Thick walls, multiple connected users and other wireless devices can all negatively impact the speed and reliability of a Wi-Fi connection, so it's important to understand how to minimise problems with Wi-Fi connections.

Contract term

Providers usually offer 24-month, 12-month or month-to-month contracts. You can expect perks like an included modem or reduced set-up fees if you sign up to a longer-term plan. A month-to-month plan, meanwhile, allows you to cancel any time without any additional exit fees, though you will usually have to pay a higher up-front cost for the privilege.

Cost

The price of unlimited broadband plans can range anywhere from around $50 a month up to $100+ depending on contract length, NBN speed and any other benefits you may opt for. More expensive options may include entertainment and streaming services like Foxtel or Fetch TV.

Extras

To ensure that you get the best deal available, look out for the following plan extras to sweeten your unlimited broadband deal:

  • Streaming services, e.g. Netflix, Stan
  • Paid TV packages, e.g. Fetch, Foxtel
  • Sports TV packages
  • Free modem
  • Discounts off mobile plan prices
  • Home phone included

Read more:

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