Small business guide to switching internet providers to Telstra in 6 steps

Why small businesses change internet providers

As your business grows, your internet needs may shift. Whether you're managing bookings, running an online store or hosting video calls, a reliable internet connection is essential.

An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a company that provides individuals and businesses with access to the internet and related services such as email, web hosting and technical support.

Changing your internet provider may help you:

• stay connected with customers
• keep your team productive
• support your digital tools and services.

Top reasons to switch internet providers

1. Improve speed and reliability

Upgrading your internet may help improve speed and reliability, depending on your location and setup. See how high-speed internet can benefit your business, especially for tasks like video calls, cloud backups and sending large files.

2. Get better value

Look beyond the price tag. Some internet plans offer more than just a connection. They may include helpful tools, modem upgrades or extra support. Choosing a plan with useful extras can help make your internet work harder for you. 

3. Access better support

Good support means you can get help when you need it. Look for providers that offer dedicated business support, online chat and local retail support options. Get help anytime with Telstra’s online support for small businesses.

4. Contract flexibility

Flexible internet plans can make it easier to adjust your service as your business changes. This can be helpful if you want to upgrade your speed, move locations or change your plan during busy or quiet times.

Explore our flexible business internet plans

5. Minimise downtime

Frequent outages may disrupt your day. Some providers offer backup internet (like mobile data) or promise a certain amount of uptime. This helps keep your business online during interruptions.

6. Align with sustainability goals

If your business cares about the environment, choose a provider that does too. Some providers may use renewable energy, recycle old devices or offer paperless billing. This can help your business reduce its impact on the planet and show customers you care.

Explore Telstra’s approach to sustainability. 

How to change internet provider in 6 steps

Switching internet providers can be a smart move for your business. Whether you're looking for faster speeds, better support or more flexible plans, this guide will walk you through six easy steps to help you switch smoothly and confidently.

Step 1: Review your current internet plan

Before switching providers, take a close look at your current contract. Understanding your existing terms helps you avoid unexpected fees and manage the transition more smoothly.

What to check:

• notice periods and cancellation terms
• exit fees or penalties
• automatic renewal clauses.

Helpful tip: Make a list of what’s been working well and what hasn’t with your current service. This will help guide your next choice.

Thinking about upgrading your plan? Here’s how to choose the right business internet for your needs.

Step 2: Research and compare internet providers

Internet providers offer different features and service levels. Comparing options helps you find a service that fits your business needs.

Key things to compare:

• speed and reliability
• customer support availability
• bundled features like fixed phone line, security tools or modem upgrades.

Helpful tip: Make a shortlist of providers and compare them side by side. Look for plans that match your business size, hours and online needs.

Explore business nbn plans

Step 3: Check equipment compatibility

Before installation, consider if your current equipment, like modems and routers, will work with the new service.

What to do:

• confirm your modem/router is compatible with the new provider
• ask if upgraded equipment is included in your plan
• consider replacing older devices to help maximise speed and stability.

Helpful tip: If your modem or router is more than a few years old, upgrading could improve your internet speed and reduce connection issues. Learn the difference between modem and router.

Step 4: Schedule the switch to avoid business disruption

A well-planned transition helps reduce downtime and supports productivity, whether you're working solo or with a team.

How to make the switch smoother:

• choose a quiet time, after hours or weekends are ideal
• notify your team early so they can prepare
• loop in IT support to help manage setup
• back up files and ask about overlap with your old service.

Helpful tip: Let customers know ahead of time if your online services might be briefly offline.

Step 5: Test and confirm your new internet connection

Before cancelling your old internet service, confirm your new connection is working properly.

What to check:

• run a speed test to compare performance with your plan
• test essential tools like phones, EFTPOS machines, cloud-based apps and remote access tools
• monitor the connection for a few days to confirm stability and consistent performance
• contact support promptly if anything isn’t working as expected.

Helpful tip: Try using your internet during your busiest time of day. This helps you see if it can handle your usual workload without slowing down.

Step 6: Disconnect from your old internet provider

Once your new internet service is up and running, finalise the switch.

What to do:

• cancel your old plan only after testing your new internet to avoid double billing or downtime
• check your final bill for exit fees or potential refunds - check your provider's terms
• update your devices and services including Wi-Fi settings, email accounts and websites linked to your old plan
• adjust remote access settings if your IP address has changed.

Helpful tip: Keep a copy of your final bill in case you need to check charges or request a refund later

Ready to switch?

If you're ready to upgrade your internet, we make it easy for small businesses to get started. Explore flexible plans, expert support and fast, reliable connections designed to help your business grow.