How to connect to the nbn™ network: A handy guide
With the nbn™ network being rolled out across Australia by 2020, are you ready to make the switch?
With the rollout of the nbn™ network well underway, there are many who do not yet understand how to make the change from the existing network to the nbn™ network.
If you have read blog about the basics of the nbn™ network, you’re probably keen to find out exactly how to connect to the nbn™ network.
Is your area ready for the nbn™ network?
You might be living in an area that has already been connected to the nbn™ network. If you would like to see if it is available in your area, you can check your address here.
If the nbn™ network is not yet available in your area, you can also register to receive an email when connection is ready.
What happens to the existing network?
As the nbn™ network is rolled out across Australia, some areas will have the existing copper network disconnected.
While this sounds like a daunting prospect, the process of switching off the existing copper network will take place gradually.
When your area is ready, you will receive ample notice that the change will be happening.
Many people believe the switch from copper to cable will happen automatically. In reality, your retail service operator will need to make the switch for you.
If you are among the percentage of Australians that will connect to the nbn™ network via wireless or satellite services, the copper cable network will not be disconnected for you.
If you are renting, you can also choose to connect to the nbn™ network.
You will just need to liaise with your landlord to get permission and discuss the best location for the equipment needed.
It’s not just your Internet connection that is changing
While your internet will certainly be affected by the change from the existing copper infrastructure, there are other devices that rely on the current network to work. These devices will also need to be addressed when the time to switch over comes. Examples of these devices are:
- EFTPOS and health claim terminals
- Back-to-base alarm systems
- Emergency phone call systems
- Medical alarms
- Fax machines
- Lift phones
- Fire indicator panels
Lift phones, EFTPOS machines and fax machines are among the devices that will need to be switched over.
The nbn™ network can support most of these devices, but the most certain way to ensure they work, is to confirm with the provider of your device if it will work after the change in network.
Is your area ready for the nbn™ network? Here's the next step
nbn™ is a wholesaler and does not provide broadband directly to customers.
Your first step, when the nbn™ network is available in your area, is to talk to a retail service provider (RSP). Your RSP will have differing costs and speeds depending on your location and their plans.
Your RSP will also be able to provide you with instructions for how to connect to their nbn™ broadband service.
What equipment do you need?
The equipment needed to connect to the nbn™ network will differ depending on the connection that is best suited to you. The nbn™ network will utilise a mix of technologies, fitting the best connection to your area.
Your RSP will have different options for connecting to the nbn™ network.
Once you have checked your address, you will be made aware of whether you need a wired, wireless or satellite connection. This will determine the equipment that you will need to access the nbn™ network.
Once you are aware of which technology you will be required to use, you should contact your RSP of choice. They will have different options for connecting to the nbn™ network. Some will allow self-installation others will offer a technician to come out and set up the connection for you.
In some special medical cases, you will receive free installation to ensure your medical alarm and phone is connected to the network as quickly as possible.
Contact your service provider of choice for more information on how to connect to the nbn™ network once it is available in your area.
To know more about the nbn™ network, check out the handy nbn™ 101 guide here.