NBN Co is responsible for building one of the largest broadband networks in the world. With an infrastructure build of this scale, we are constantly monitoring the consumer usage trends so we can optimise our network to deliver the best possible customer experience.

On the fixed wireless network, we have seen a significant spike in the amount of data being used in recent months, particularly in peak times. In addition to more data being used over a longer period of time, we are seeing a notable increase of concurrent users. This is often referred to as the 'Netflix effect' where many households sit down after dinner to stream their favourite show.

Due to this increase in demand, we will further invest in an upgrade program to expand the capacity of our wireless towers.

As with any wireless broadband solution, capacity is not infinite and needs to be carefully monitored and managed in order to deliver a network that can provide the best customer experience.

Over the coming months, we will be upgrading a number of our wireless towers to fit them with greater data capacity. Naturally, we will be prioritising areas where users are experiencing the most congestion.

What happens during an upgrade?

When we upgrade a tower, there may be some disruption to telephone and internet services throughout the day affecting local residents who are connected to the network.

This could result in some users unable to use their nbn™ service during the time work is carried out at the wireless tower. These interruptions will typically be during the day and may be for a number of hours over a number of days.

We will take steps to ensure that any interruptions to service are kept to a minimum while ensuring the safety of workers at the wireless towers.

We regret any inconvenience this may cause and ask for your understanding as we perform these vital upgrades. We will work with your retail service provider who will in turn be able to keep you informed and answer your questions.

What happens next?

We will continue to monitor the network as internet usage grows and will work collaboratively with regional Australians, as well as phone and internet providers, to help ensure the best possible service from the nbn™ Fixed Wireless network.*

If you have further questions about the Fixed Wireless Service and potential outages, we recommend you contact your retail service provider or visit our website.