Fixed NBN Wireless offers a practical broadband solution for those living in the outskirts or away from major Australian cities. However, understanding how weather and distance affect NBN Fixed Wireless speeds is crucial to ensuring you get the best experience possible. We’ll explore these factors and how you can improve your connection.
What is Fixed NBN Wireless?
Fixed NBN Wireless is a broadband internet technology that uses radio signals to connect your home to the National Broadband Network (NBN). It’s particularly useful for areas where other types of NBN connections, like fibre or hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC), are not available.
How Does Fixed NBN Wireless Work?
The setup involves several components and steps:
- Outdoor Antenna: An NBN-approved technician installs an outdoor antenna, usually on your roof, to receive signals from the nearest NBN Fixed Wireless tower.
- NBN Connection Box: Installed inside your home, it connects the signal from the antenna to your modem.
- In-Home Setup: Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) supplies a Wi-Fi router and ethernet cables for connecting your devices to the internet.
Factors Affecting NBN Fixed Wireless Speeds
The speeds you experience with NBN Fixed Wireless can vary significantly due to several factors:
Distance from the Tower
The distance between your home and the NBN Fixed Wireless tower is one of the most critical factors. Generally, the closer you are, the better your connection.
Weather Conditions
Weather can have a notable impact on signal strength and speed. For instance:
- Heavy Rain: Can absorb and scatter radio signals, reducing signal strength.
- Fog: Can also scatter the signal, affecting the connection.
- Wind: Can cause physical obstructions like trees to sway, creating intermittent disruptions.
- Extreme Heat: Can cause equipment to overheat, potentially degrading performance.
Line of Sight
For optimal performance, your outdoor antenna needs a clear line of sight to the NBN tower. Any obstructions like buildings, trees, or hills can affect the signal’s strength and, consequently, your internet speed.
Network Congestion
Fixed NBN Wireless operates on shared infrastructure. During peak usage times, you might experience slower speeds due to higher demand on the network.
Improving Your NBN Fixed Wireless Speeds
While some factors affecting speed are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to optimise your NBN Fixed Wireless connection:
Ensure Proper Installation
Make sure the installation of your outdoor antenna and NBN connection box is done correctly. The antenna should be placed in the optimal location with a clear line of sight to the NBN tower.
Maintain Equipment
Regularly check for and remove any obstructions around your outdoor antenna. Trees and other objects can grow over time, gradually obstructing the signal.
Monitor Weather Conditions
While you can’t control the weather, knowing that poor weather conditions can affect your connection might help you understand sudden fluctuations in speed. Plan heavy internet use, like large downloads or streaming, for times when the weather is more favourable.
Minimise In-Home Interference
Ensure your NBN connection box and Wi-Fi router are placed in a central, ventilated area to avoid loss of signal strength due to physical obstructions within your home.
Recent Improvements and Upgrades
Boosted Speeds
Recent upgrades to Fixed NBN Wireless plans have seen boosted speeds becoming available. New speed tiers and other improvements are expected to roll out from mid-2024, addressing current limitations and offering faster connection options.
Free Equipment Upgrades
For existing users, NBN Co. is offering free equipment upgrades at selected locations. These can significantly improve connection quality and speed. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these upgrades when they become available to you.
Conclusion
Understanding how factors like weather and distance affect NBN Fixed Wireless speeds is essential for getting the best experience. By following the recommended tips, you can maximise your connection’s performance and enjoy a more stable internet service. Always keep an eye out for the latest upgrades to ensure you’re getting the most out of your NBN Fixed Wireless connection.
Contact Your Provider for Assistance
If you still face issues despite following these tips, it’s best to contact your internet service provider for further assistance. They can help diagnose specific problems and offer solutions tailored to your situation.
