Do I need NBN for internet?
Do I need NBN for internet?
Question
I’ve recently moved to Australia and I’m hearing a lot about the NBN. Do I absolutely need to switch to the NBN for my internet and landline services, or are there other options available? I currently use mobile broadband and I’m wondering if that’s sufficient
Your Answer for do I need NBN for internet
Answer
The National Broadband Network (NBN) has been a significant project in Australia, aiming to provide high-speed internet access to households and businesses across the country. While the NBN has its merits, it’s not the only option available for those seeking reliable internet connectivity. Let’s delve into some of the best alternatives to the NBN.
4G Routers
4G routers use the same technology as 4G smartphones, providing internet access through mobile networks. These routers are especially useful for areas with strong 4G coverage but limited NBN connectivity. The key benefits include:
- Speed and Reliability: 4G routers can offer speeds between 20Mbps and 50Mbps, depending on the network coverage and congestion.
- Ease of Setup: Unlike the NBN, which might require technician visits and installations, 4G routers are plug-and-play. Simply turn on the router, and you’re connected.
5G Routers
5G is the next generation of mobile network technology, promising faster speeds and more reliable connections than its predecessor, 4G. 5G routers tap into this network to provide internet access. Here’s what you need to know:
- Superior Speeds: While 4G offers decent speeds, 5G can deliver top speeds that are multiple times faster. However, real-world performance might vary based on signal strength and network congestion.
- Future-Proofing: As 5G networks expand and improve, users with 5G routers stand to benefit from these advancements.
Starlink
Starlink, a project by SpaceX, aims to provide global internet coverage using satellites. It’s an ambitious alternative to traditional internet delivery methods. The highlights include:
- Global Coverage: Starlink’s satellite network promises to deliver internet access even in remote and underserved areas.
- Competitive Speeds: Early users have reported speeds comparable to or even exceeding traditional broadband connections.
Do I Need NBN for Internet?
In Australia, the NBN is gradually replacing most of the existing landline phone and internet networks. If you’re looking for a landline or broadband service, you might consider switching to the NBN. However, if you’re using mobile broadband or other wireless services, the NBN might not be necessary. Always consult with your service provider to determine the best option for your needs.
Alternative Products to Bypass NBN
For those interested in bypassing the NBN, several products on the market can help. From powerful 4G and 5G routers to Starlink’s satellite dishes, there’s a range of equipment designed to provide reliable internet access without relying on the NBN. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to research and choose a product that aligns with your connectivity needs and budget.
In conclusion, while the NBN serves as a primary internet source for many Australians, it’s not the only option. NBN Alternatives like 4G routers, 5G routers, and Starlink offer promising solutions for those seeking different or supplementary internet sources. As technology continues to evolve, it’s always a good idea to stay informed and choose the best connectivity solution for your unique situation.
NBN Alternatives
4G Routers – Via SIM Card
SaleBestseller No. 1
TP-Link 300 Mbps Wireless N 4G LTE Router, 4G Network, Connects Up to 32 Devices, SIM card Slot, Wi-Fi Router Mode, LAN/WAN Port, No Configuration Needed, Parental & Access Control (TL-MR100)
- Cutting-edge 4G network – Share internet access with up to 32 Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Plug a SIM card and play – No configurations needed, compatibility of SIM cards in 100+ countries are assured by years of field tests
- Two detachable advanced LTE antennas – Enjoy stable and efficient connections to every device thanks to the two external antennas
- Wi-Fi router mode – Plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN/WAN port for flexible access as a backup option if you can't get a 4G connection *Subject to ISP hardware requirement
- TP-Link - World's No. 1 Provider of WLAN Products within last 11 years. Leading support - Industry leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support
SaleBestseller No. 2
TP-Link AC1200 4G+ Cat6 Gigabit Router, Wireless, Dual Band, 4G/3G Network, Up to 300Mbps, SIM Slot, MU-MIMO, Full Gigabit Ports, OneMesh, Wi-Fi Router Mode, No Configuration Required (Archer MR600)
- TP-Link's First 4G+ Router – supports 4G+ Cat6 to boost the data speeds of up to 300 Mbps*
- Full Gigabit Ports – provides reliable wired connections for bandwidth-intensive devices such as game consoles and STB
- Plug a SIM card and play – no configurations needed, compatibility of SIM cards in 100+ countries are assured by years of field tests
- Better Signal for Connections Everywhere – enjoy stable and efficient connections to every device thanks to the two external LTE antennas
- TP-Link - World's No. 1 Provider of WLAN Products within last 11 years. Leading support - Industry leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support
SaleBestseller No. 3
TP-Link 300 Mbps N 4G LTE, Wireless, 4G Network, No Configuration Required, LAN/WAN Port, SIM card Slot, Connects Up to 32 Devices, Parental Control and Access Control (TL-MR6400 APAC)
- Cutting-edge 4G network: share internet access with up to 32 Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Two detachable advanced LTE antennas: enjoy stable and efficient connections to every device
- Wi-Fi router mode: plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN/WAN port for flexible access as a backup option
- Enhanced Network type (fully compatible with Telstra, Optus and Vodafone network) – 4G: FDD-LTE B5 (850MHz) / B28 (700MHz); 3G: B5 (850MHz)
Bestseller No. 4
TP-Link 300 Mbps Wireless N 4G LTE Router, 3G/4G Network, Connects Up to 32 Devices, SIM Slot Unlocked, No Configuration Required, LAN/WAN Port, Wi-Fi Router Mode (TL-MR105)
- Share internet access with up to 32 Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Plug a SIM card and play no configurations needed
- Plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN/WAN port of flexible access if you can’t get a 4G connection
- Advanced Software Functions Help You Enhance Your Network Safety and Effectiveness, such as roubust parental controls and guest network.
- TP-Link is the World’s No.1 Wi-Fi Product Provider. Industry-leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support.
SaleBestseller No. 5
TP-Link AC750 4G LTE Router, Wireless, Dual Band, 4G/ 3G Network, Up to 150 Mbps, SIM card Slot, Connects Up to 64 Devices, No Configuration Required, LAN/WAN Port (Archer MR200)
- Shares your 4G LTE network with multiple Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Powerful, integrated antennas provide stable wireless connections and better coverage
- Requires no configuration, just insert a SIM card and turn it on to enjoy a fast wireless connection
- Creates simultaneous dual-band Wi-Fi networks, with maximum speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 433 Mbps on the 5GHz band
- TP-Link - World's No. 1 Provider of WLAN Products within last 11 years. Leading support - Industry leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support
SaleBestseller No. 6
Mercusys 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi, 2200 mAh Battery, 4G Network, 150 Mbps WiFi Speed, SIM Card Plug & Play, Easy Setup & Use, App Control, Connect up to 10 Devices (MT110)
- Enable simultaneous internet access for up to 10 devices, allowing seamless sharing with friends
- Equipped with a 2200 mAh battery, providing up to 10 hours of continuous operation
- Embracing the cutting-edge 4G FDD/TDD-LTE technology
- Experience high-speed WiFi connectivity of up to 150 Mbps for seamless network sharing
- SIM Card Plug and Play: Effortlessly connect anywhere and everywhere
SaleBestseller No. 7
Mercusys AC1200 Wireless 4G LTE Wi-Fi Router, Dual Band, Plug a SIM Card & Play, Simultaneous Connects Up to 32 Wi-Fi Devices, External Antennas Ports, Wi-Fi Router Mode (MB130-4G)
- 4G Network – Enjoy the 4G LTE download speeds up to 150 Mbps
- Plug a SIM card and play – No configurations needed, compatibility of SIM cards are assured by years of field tests
- Dual band 1200 Mbps WiFi – Fast WiFi speeds up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band
- Simultaneous connection– Share internet access with up to 32 Wi-Fi devices
- External antennas ports – Plug in your 4G/3G antennas to enhance the network signal
SaleBestseller No. 8
Tenda 4G05 N300 Wi-Fi 4G LTE Router, LTE and High-Speed Ethernet Access, WiFi Speeds of Up to 300Mbps, Plug and Play, with Sim Slot
- COMPATIBLE WITH SIM CARDS FROM VARIOUS OPERATORS. It's compatible with 3900+ carriers' SIM cards in more than 100 countries. It also refreshes APN list at regular period.
- NO NEED TO CONFIGURE. PLUG AND PLAY. Simply connect the power source and insert a nano SIM card, without the need for complicated setup. Additionally, the device also supports wired connections to devices such as laptops, providing you with a more flexible and convenient network experience.
- WI-FI RATE OF 300MBPS ALLOWS UP TO 32 OPERATORS TO ACCESS SIMULTANEOUSLY. Featuring two external high-performance 4G antennas and optimized LTE technology.
- 24/7 NETWORK MONITORING FOR STABLE WI-FI CONNECTIVITY. It provides you with a stable Wi-Fi connection around the clock.
- SUPPORT MOBILE POWER FOR MORE COMPREHENSIVE SCENARIOS. The device supports dual voltage (9V/5V) and can be powered by either an adapter or a mobile power source.
SaleBestseller No. 9
TP-Link AC1200 Wireless Dual Band 4G LTE Router, Up to 1.2Gbps, Travel Router,MU-MIMO, OneMesh Mode, Gaming & Streaming, HomeShield, Plug&Play, Easy Setup,Parental Control, App Control(Archer MR402)
- Cutting-edge 4G network – share internet access with up to 64 Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- AC1200 Wi-Fi – creates simultaneous dual band Wi-Fi networks with maximum speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band
- Plug a SIM card and play – no configurations needed, compatibility for SIM cards in 100+ countries are assured by years of field tests
- Two detachable advanced LTE antennas – enjoy stable and efficient connections to every device thanks to the two external antennas
- Wi-Fi router mode – plug an ethernet cable into the LAN/WAN port for flexible access if you can't get a 4G connection
Bestseller No. 10
D-Link Australia G403 Cat4 LTE WiFi Router: Fast WiFi & Unlocked SIM Card Slot - Supports All 4G/3G Networks, 300Mbps Wi-Fi 4 Speeds, Great Wi-Fi Coverage with Telstra 4GX / Optus 4G+ / Voda Support
- Compatibility - The D-Link Australia G403 4G LTE Modem Router is compatible with any 4G/3G network in Australia including Telstra, Optus and Vodafone . Includes two removable 4G/3G external antennae for improved coverage and stability, and supports up to 128 networking devices.
- High Speed - The G403 4G LTE Router Supports Telstra 4GX, Optus 4G+ and all other 4G networks with Cat4 technology to provide download speeds of up to 150 Mbps, with N300 Wi-Fi 4 and ultra-fast 1Gbps Ethernet connections for a stable, reliable connection.
- Scalability - The D-Link Australia 4G+ Cat4 Router offers multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect Wired devices, such as Gaming Consoles (for example an xBox or Playstation), Smart TV's, or printers where necessary.
- Security - The router is secured with the latest sophisticated WPA3 security protocols which ensures your connection is safe and secure, and is fully backwards compatible with older WPA2 and WPA security protocols also. The G403 also supports one-touch WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) control, and includes a built-in firewall to block unwanted access.
- Sim Unlockable - The D-Link Australia G403 4G modem router sports an unlocked SIM card slot which enables users to connect with any compatible SIM across all Australian networks.
NBN Alternatives
5G Routers – Via SIM Card
SaleBestseller No. 1
TP-Link 5G AX1800 Dual-Band Gigabit Router, up to 1.8Gbps,Gigabit WAN/LAN Port, 5G Modem, Travel Router, HomeShield, Gaming&Streaming, Smart Home, Plug & Play, Easy Setup&App Control (Archer NX200)
- Wireless dual-band gigabit router boost your 5g speed
- EasyMesh compatible for creating a mesh network with a single Wi-Fi name
- Can provide a backup internet connection when used as a wireless router
- Gigabit WAN/LAN port enables use as a traditional router with cable, fiber or DSL modems
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 1201 Mbps on 5 GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4 GHz
SaleBestseller No. 2
TP-Link Archer NX200 5G Wi-Fi 6 AX1800Mbps Router with SIM, Dual Band, Plug & Play, Gigabit WAN/LAN Port, 4K-QAM, Beamforming, 8×5G/LTE, 2×Wi-Fi Internal Antennas, EasyMesh, HomeShield
- Support 5G connectivity - Connect your home with advanced 5G connectivity with download speeds of up to 4.6Gbps and share your network with multiple Wi-Fi devices.
- Wi-Fi 6 AX1800 - Up to 1201Mbps (5GHz) + 574Mbps (2.4GHz).
- Plug & Play - Insert a SIM card and you're ready to connect.
- EasyMesh Support - Expand Wi-Fi by adding an EasyMesh compatible extender and enjoy seamless network signal.
- Gigabit WAN/LAN Port - The Gigabit WAN/LAN port allows the NX200 to function as a traditional wireless router compatible with cable, fiber and DSL modems.
Bestseller No. 3
5G WiFi6 LTE Mobile Hotspot, 5G Router with Sim Card Slot, International Coverage Modem, Portable Internet Devices for Travel, 16 Users, 2.5 Inch Color Screen
- 【Incredible Speed: The 5G mobile hotspot provides ultra fast speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, 15 times faster than 4G, ensuring smoother video streaming and gaming without freezing. With 5G's incredible download and upload speeds, say goodbye to interruptions and delays and keep your life seamlessly integrated both online and offline.
- 【Global Compatibility】: Compatible with more than 50 commercial 5G countries, more than 100 operator networks, and mainstream 4G networks worldwide, the mobile router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for flexible network management and reduced interference in crowded environments.
- 【Convenient Control】: Equipped with a 2.5 inch LCD screen for easy monitoring of data usage, strength, connected devices, and network settings, giving you complete control over your connection with a touch screen, central navigation buttons, and expanded settings menu.
- 【Dual Functionality】: Featuring a built in 10000mAh polymer lithium battery, the 5G hotspot can also serve as a power bank to keep all your devices charged, ensuring you stay connected wherever you are.
- 【Portable and Practical】: Compact and lightweight, this portable device allows you to enjoy fast speeds for watching videos, sending messages, and viewing files globally, making it incredibly practical for everyday use.
Bestseller No. 4
5G WiFi6 LTE Mobile Hotspot, 5G Router with Sim Card Slot, International Coverage Modem, Portable Internet Devices for Travel, 16 Devices, 6100mAh Battery
- Excellent Performance: 5G mobile hotspot provides you with high speed and low latency, up to 2.77Gbps download speed and 1.25Gbps upload speed, making watching videos or gaming smoother and saying goodbye to interruptions and delays
- Multiple Functions: This WiFi mobile hotspot supports 5G, CA, 4G, and bands, is equipped with SIM card slot, and has a built in 1T4R 5G antenna; Supports 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz dual band WIFI6, connecting up to 16 devices simultaneously
- IP67 Rating and LED Light: This WiFi portable hotspot has an IP67 protective rating, reinforced design, prevents falling, dust, and water; User friendly LED light for easy monitoring of data usage, signal strength, device and network settings
- Built in Battery: This travel hotspot is equipped with a 6100mAh high capacity polymer battery, ensuring longer endurance and uninterrupted connectivity; With hot swappable function, suppor SIM card (not included), increasing convenience of use
- Connection: This WiFi hotspot provides efficient and wireless connectivity, ensuring smoother data transmissing for all devices and optimizing performance. Support up to 16 devices simultaneously, including phones, laptops, tablets, and game consoles
Bestseller No. 5
5G Mobile Hotspot, Portable High Speed Dual Band WiFi6 Router with SIM Card Slot, Support 16 Devices Stable Connection(Orange)
- Excellent Performance: 5G mobile hotspot provides you with high speed and low latency, up to 2.77Gbps download speed and 1.25Gbps upload speed, making watching videos or gaming smoother and saying goodbye to interruptions and delays
- Multiple Functions: This mobile hotspot supports 5G, CA, 4G, and bands, is equipped with SIM card slot, and has a built in 1T4R 5G antenna; Supports 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz band 6, connecting up to 16 devices simultaneously
- IP67 Rating and LED Light: This portable hotspot has an IP67 protective rating, reinforced design, prevents falling, dust, and water; User friendly LED light for easy monitoring of data usage, signal strength, device and network settings
- Built in Battery: This travel hotspot is equipped with a 6100mAh high capacity polymer battery, ensuring longer endurance and uninterrupted connectivity; With hot swappable function, suppor SIM card (not included), increasing convenience of use
- Connection: This hotspot provides efficient and connectivity, ensuring smoother data transmissing for all devices and optimizing performance. Support up to 16 devices simultaneously, including phones, laptops, tablets, and game consoles
Bestseller No. 6
5G WiFi6 LTE Mobile Hotspot, 5G Router with Sim Card Slot, International Coverage Modem, Portable Internet Devices for Travel, 4400mah, 16 Users, 2.4GHz/5.8GHz
- High Speed Network: The mobile hotspot is compatible with the latest Fidelity 6 and Fidelity 5 standards for increased speed, range and performance. This ensures that users can connect to faster, more stable networks for a better Internet experience.
- Dual Band: 5G mobile hotspot supports 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands. It supports 802.11 a b g n ac protocol, ensuring smooth data transfer and excellent performance for all devices.
- Compact and Portable: The 5G mobile hotspot is compact and portable, and can easily fit in your pocket, providing users with a convenient Internet solution. Whether you are on a business trip or traveling, you can carry it with you and access the Internet at any time.
- Long Lasting Battery: 5G portable mobile hotspot has a built in 4400mah high capacity battery, which can be used for a long time without frequent charging, making it more convenient for users to enjoy Internet services.
- Shared Connection: The travel portable hotspot supports simultaneous connection of up to 16 devices, including cell phones, laptops, tablets and game consoles, while maintaining a private and secure connection.
SaleBestseller No. 7
TP-Link 300 Mbps Wireless N 4G LTE Router, 4G Network, Connects Up to 32 Devices, SIM card Slot, Wi-Fi Router Mode, LAN/WAN Port, No Configuration Needed, Parental & Access Control (TL-MR100)
- Cutting-edge 4G network – Share internet access with up to 32 Wi-Fi devices and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps
- Plug a SIM card and play – No configurations needed, compatibility of SIM cards in 100+ countries are assured by years of field tests
- Two detachable advanced LTE antennas – Enjoy stable and efficient connections to every device thanks to the two external antennas
- Wi-Fi router mode – Plug an Ethernet cable into the LAN/WAN port for flexible access as a backup option if you can't get a 4G connection *Subject to ISP hardware requirement
- TP-Link - World's No. 1 Provider of WLAN Products within last 11 years. Leading support - Industry leading 3-year warranty and 24/7 technical support
SaleBestseller No. 8
ASUS RT-AX57 Go (AX3000) Dual Band WiFi 6 Travel Router, 4G & 5G Mobile Tethering, Public WiFi(WISP) Mode, Subscription-free Network Security, VPN, Easy Setup, AiMesh Support, Guest Portal, Wall Mount
- Tri-mode connectivity for travel, work and home with 4G/5G mobile tethering, a private hotspot over public WiFi (WISP mode), and router mode.
- Ultrafast WiFi 6 with 160 MHz channel significantly increases network capacity to support up to 70 devices, with speeds of up to 3,000 Mbps.
- Comprehensive VPN features with one-touch activation, supporting multiple protocols, up to 30 service providers, and site-to-site VPN.
- Subscription-free network security with commercial-grade AiProtection Classic powered by Trend Micro, plus a one-tap security scan and Safe Browsing.
- 3-step easy setup and hassle-free management via the highly rated ASUS Router mobile app.
Bestseller No. 9
GL.iNet GL-X3000 (Spitz AX) 5G NR AX3000 Cellular Gateway Router, Wi-Fi 6, Multi-WAN, & Detachable Antennas, Dual-SIM, OpenVPN & WireGuard, OpenWrt, MU-MIMO, RV Internet
- 【Fast Wi-Fi 6 Cellular Router】GL-X3000 provides reliable cellular networks for remote access and high speed internet in urban areas with up to 574Mbps (2.4GHz) + 2402Mbps (5GHz) Wi-Fi speeds. Supports MU-MIMO technology for simultaneous wireless network connections in different scenario.
- 【5G Network & Dual-SIM with Single Modem】Experience lightning-fast 5G speeds under both NSA and SA standards. Dual-SIM flexibility for selecting the stronger and faster ISP connection and automatic failover. Compatible with 4G LTE and 3G networks.
- 【VPN Tunnelling & Remote Access】Provides pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard to support 30+ VPN services and encrypts all network traffic within the connected network so that the network is secured when connecting to a public Wi-Fi. Max. VPN speed of 150 Mbps (OpenVPN); 300 Mbps (WireGuard)
- 【Customizable OpenWrt v21.02】Spitz AX is supported by our proprietary firmware based on OpenWrt (v21.02), providing more than 5,000 ready-made plug-ins for advanced customization. With minimal inputs, you could easily access our no-code interface within the Admin Panel.
- 【Powerful RV Deployment】Secure your network gateway in RVs and access multiple WAN connections with ease using GL-X3000's 6 detachable antennas (4 x Cellular Antennas (SMA, 600M~6GHz), 2x Wi-Fi Antennas (PR-SMA, 2.4G~2.5GHz, 5.15~5.84GHz) and dual SIM card slots. For extra stability of your internet services in remote areas, you could also connect to your desired wired dome antenna.
Bestseller No. 10
5G Mobile WiFi, 2.4GHz 5.8GHz WiFi 6, Portable Mobile Hotspot with SIM Card Slot, 16 Devices Share, 6100mAh Large Battery, Travel WiFi Device for Phones Laptops Tablets
- Excellent Performance: 5G mobile hotspot provides you with high speed and low latency, up to 2.77Gbps download speed and 1.25Gbps upload speed, making watching videos or gaming smoother and saying goodbye to interruptions and delays
- Multiple Functions: This WiFi mobile hotspot supports 5G, CA, 4G, and 3-G bands, is equipped with SIM card slot, and has a built in 1T4R 5G antenna; Supports 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz dual band WIFI6, connecting up to 16 devices simultaneously
- IP67 Rating and LED Light: This WiFi portable hotspot has an IP67 protective rating, reinforced design, prevents falling, dust, and water; User friendly LED light for easy monitoring of data usage, signal strength, device and network settings
- Built in Battery: This travel hotspot is equipped with a 6100mAh high capacity polymer battery, ensuring longer endurance and uninterrupted connectivity; With hot swappable function, suppor SIM card (not included), increasing convenience of use
- nice Connection: This WiFi hotspot provides efficient and nice wireless connectivity, ensuring smoother data transmissing for all devices and optimizing performance. Support up to 16 devices simultaneously, including phones, laptops, tablets, and game consoles
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