From modems to cabling, here’s the equipment we recommend to get faster and more reliable connectivity at home.
Ever tried streaming a movie only for it to buffer at the best part? Do you sometimes feel your internet can't quite keep up? It could be time for an upgrade.
Simple changes like installing or updating to Category 5e or higher ethernet cabling between your nbn box and modem can help give your home faster connections. Replacing old devices can also make a noticeable difference. And for the biggest boost, upgrade to Telstra Smart Modem 4 for faster speeds and stronger Wi-Fi.
For terminology used in this article, jump to Definitions.
It's worth checking if your devices and modem are a good match. A modem brings the internet into your home, and the router sends it out to your devices.
Older modems and Wi-Fi standards may not be able to deliver the full speeds available on the fastest nbn® plans. Before taking up a new modem or higher speed plan, you should check if your modem and/or router is suitable for your current plan and needs.
If you are taking up a higher speed plan (where the download speeds are over 100Mbps), you should check whether you have a Cat5e or higher ethernet cable connecting your nbn box to your modem and nbn box to. If you don't have a Cat5e ethernet cable, you won't get the higher speeds. You can check this by looking at the small text written on the cable itself.
If you’ve chosen to use your own modem, we are unlikely to know its specifications or capabilities. As a result, we won’t be able confirm whether your modem is able to support the full speed of your selected plan. You can check whether your modem is compatible with your chosen plan by:
Your choice of modem or router, and how you set it up within your premises, could limit you from utilising the maximum speeds of your broadband plan.
If you are taking up a higher speed plan (where download speeds are over 100Mbps), you should check whether you have a Cat 5e or higher ethernet cable connecting your nbn box to your modem and nbn box to. If you don't have a Cat 5e ethernet cable, you won't get the higher speeds. You can check this by looking at the small text written on the cable itself.
If you are taking up a higher speed plan (where download speeds are over 100Mbps), you should check whether you have a Cat 5e or higher ethernet cable connecting your nbn box to your modem and nbn box to. If you don't have a Cat 5e ethernet cable, you won't get the higher speeds. You can check this by looking at the small text written on the cable itself.
For help with your modem or internet connection, visit our Help page for troubleshooting guides and support.
Install ethernet cabling to give your home more reliable access points as it's a great way to future-proof your setup.
A strong internet connection depends on quality wiring. If you’re renovating or building, 'in-wall' cabling is wiring that’s installed inside the walls of your home. It’s a clean, long-term solution that can improve both performance and appearance. Not building? A licensed technician can check your current setup and recommend upgrades.
There are different nbn technology types, and depending on the one you have, it can also affect performance. Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) is a faster and more reliable option, as it is able to deliver higher speeds than other technologies. What's more, nbn has just upgraded this and other fibre technologies to faster speeds. That means many homes are now eligible to upgrade to FTTP.
The Telstra Smart Modem 4 is our most powerful modem yet, with next generation Wi-Fi 7 technology that lets you stream, game and work at life speed – even in the most crowded home networks. It’s like future-proofing for your internet. Some of its features include:
Compared to our previous modem.
Got a larger home or multiple storeys? You might want to install boosters to help extend your coverage further.
Backup available with eligible plans only. Mobile coverage required. Actual speeds may be lower.
Follow this checklist for simple tips to help you optimise your in-home setup.
