Do I Need a Modem for NBN?

Do I really need a modem for my NBN connection, or can I just use a router? What’s the difference based on the type of NBN technology?

1. Difference Between a Modem and a Router for NBN:

• A modem is a networking device that connects your address to the internet. It acts as a translator between the analog signal from your internet service provider and the digital signal that links to the router and individual devices in your property.
• A router takes the internet from the modem and shares it among the devices in your home, allowing multiple devices to connect to the internet simultaneously.

2. Do You Need a Modem for NBN?

• For certain NBN technology types such as Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP), Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC), Fibre-to-the-Curb (FTTC), NBN Fixed Wireless, and Sky Muster satellite NBN, you would need an NBN box/NTD/modem provided by NBN Co to get online.
• For Fibre-to-the-Building (FTTB) and Fibre-to-the-Node (FTTN) technologies, modem-routers are commonly used. These are devices that combine both a modem and a router’s functionalities. These technologies rely on the VDSL2 standard, which is used to achieve optimal broadband speeds from copper wiring.
• If you’re connected via any of the other mentioned NBN technologies, any modern router will work with the NBN box/NTD/modem options.

3. NBN-Compatible Routers and Modem-Routers:

• Technically, there’s no specific device known as an “NBN router” or “NBN modem-router”. What you need is an NBN-compatible router or modem-router.

To determine the exact type of hardware you need for your specific NBN connection, it’s recommended to contact your internet service provider or NBN Co for clarity. They will provide the necessary equipment based on your NBN technology type and ensure compatibility.