Crappy NBN Modem – here are a few better ones (2025 update network guide)
The term Crappy NBN Modem covers a lot of sins. The chief is that they are invariably low-cost (<$150), usually Wi-Fi 6 AX, have low antenna signal strength, poor error resilience, and are not designed to support more than a few devices.
Update February 2025
NBN is rolling out Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) at a terrific pace because Fibre to the Node (FTTN), which uses Telstra’s old copper wire from the node to the house, is increasingly unreliable. So, while we refer to FTTN using VDSL2+ copper, this guide is equally applicable to FTTP and HFC (Cable).
If you have an FTTN connection, you need a VDASL2+ modem/router to act as the gateway. Remember that these cheap, low-performance routers are seldom suitable for most homes or apartments. The good news is that you can put a decent router or mesh system behind the gateway and get whole-of-home coverage.
| Guests and Topics on the Show |
| Staying connected isn’t just about having a phone plan—it’s about fair pricing, reliable service, and consumer protections. Carol Bennett, CEO of ACCAN, joins us to discuss the latest push for better telco connectivity, more choices, and stronger safety measures for Aussie consumers. This is all about phones talking direct to satellite, regardless of Australian telco provider you subscribe to. Watch this space! The transition to electric vehicles and home energy tech is picking up speed, and Fully Charged Live is bringing the latest innovations to Sydney. Robert Llewellyn, the founder of Fully Charged, joins us to talk about what’s driving this shift, what to expect at the event, and how Australia is shaping up in the global EV and renewable energy space. The event happens next weekend March 7-9, you can book your tickets here. |
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