Your family needs a ripper internet connection in this fast-paced digital era. Australia’s National Broadband Network (NBN) is the go-to choice for unleashing the full potential of your online experience. With a suitable NBN connection, you can say goodbye to the endless buffering, dropped connections, and the agony of waiting for a page to load.
But when you decide to get high-speed internet, you might start wondering “what NBN speed do I need?”
Well, there is no short answer to this question. In the land Down Under, there were 25.31 million internet users as of January 2023. And at the start of 2023, the median mobile internet connection speed for cellular networks was 86.01 Mbps, while it was 53.06 Mbps for fixed internet connections. In other words, your NBN internet provider will provide you with internet plans of varying speeds.
Let’s get started.
Why NBN?
Choosing NBN is a no-brainer for Aussies seeking a seamless online experience. It is the backbone of high-speed internet in the vast land Down Under. With its range of high-speed connections, NBN ensures reliable internet for work, entertainment, and staying connected.
Whether you are a city slicker enjoying fibre-optic precision or a regional dweller benefitting from fixed wireless solutions, NBN caters to all corners of our country. With high-quality NBN speeds, you can say goodbye to buffering blues and hello to lightning-fast downloads, smooth streaming, and lag-free gaming.
Plus, with diverse NBN speeds, you can choose a plan that meets your browsing needs, whether gaming or simple browsing and email. It’s not just an internet connection. It’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your online world.
A Quick Round Up of Different NBN Connections
Before you jump on the NBN bandwagon, understand the different NBN connections and speeds. Remember, your NBN internet speed will vary considerably depending on your connection.
Here are various NBN connections:
- Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): FTTP is probably the best connection NBN offers. With direct delivery of fibre-optic cables, this top-notch connection ensures unrivalled speed and reliability. It is a favourite for those craving a seamless online experience.
- Fibre to the Node (FTTN): In the FTTN setup, fibre optics and regular copper lines work together to get internet to your place. The only catch is the farther you are from the central point (the node), the slower your internet might be. It’s a bit of a balancing act.
- Fixed Wireless: Think of Fixed Wireless like a radio signal bringing the internet to the countryside. It’s great for places where regular cables can’t reach. Hence, it is ideal for rural areas.
- Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC): HFC uses your existing cable TV network. It’s a fast connection that transforms your cable network into a powerhouse for TV and speedy internet. It’s like having the best of both worlds.
- Fibre to the Curb (FTTC): FTTC is a middle ground between FTTP and FTTN. It brings fibre close to your home. It strikes a balance between speed and accessibility. It also ensures a good connection without sacrificing the efficiency of fibre optics.
- Satellite NBN: When you’re in a super remote area, Satellite NBN comes to the rescue. It acts like a space messenger, beaming internet signals from satellites to a dish at your place. It makes even the farthest corners of Australia part of the online world.
Understand Different NBN Speeds
Now, let’s look into the heart of the matter – NBN speeds. But before we start, you should know that the advertised or ideal NBN speeds vary from typical evening or busy hour speeds. So, first, let’s talk about the seven most common NBN internet speeds:
1. Common NBN Internet Speeds
- NBN12 – 12/1: It is the most basic of ideal NBN speeds. It is perfect for basic needs, with 12Mbps download and 1Mbps upload.
- NBN25 – 25/10: This NBN internet speed is a step up from the basic plan. It offers a much smoother browsing experience with 25Mbps download and 10Mbps upload.
- NBN50 – 50/20: This NBN internet speed offers a sweet spot for HD streaming with 50Mbps download and 20Mbps upload. Go for this speed if you have multiple devices streaming HD content in your household.
- NBN100/20 – 100/20: As you can see, this speed is ideal for heavy users. With 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload, you can stream HD content, video conferencing, and online gaming – all at once.
- NBN100 – 100/40: This NBN internet speed lets you unleash the full potential of your internet connection. With 100Mbps download and 40Mbps upload, the sky’s the limit.
- NBN250 – 250/25: need faster internet? Zoom through the internet highway with 250Mbps download and 25Mbps upload.
- NBN1000 – 1000/50: Finally, you have the speed demon’s choice – 1000Mbps download and 50Mbps upload. It is the fastest internet connection NBN offers as of now. Large households and small offices can find it useful for all online activities.
Typical Evening Speeds
As mentioned, you may not get the ideal speed during busy hours. The Aussie Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has developed guidelines to give a more realistic sense of what NBN speeds to expect. That’s why you would see your NBN internet provider advertise typical evening speeds (from 7 PM to 11 PM) for each plan.
The typical evening speeds fall into four tiers. They are:
- Basic Evening Speed: This NBN speed is less than 15 Mbps. Although not very fast, it is perfect for web browsing and emails.
- Standard Evening Speed: This means your NBN internet provider will deliver at least 15 Mbps from 7 PM to 11 PM. It is ideal for HD video streaming and web browsing.
- Standard Plus Evening Speed: With at least 30 Mbps evening speed, you can readily go for 4K video and music streaming.
- Premium Evening Speed: This NBN speed offers at least 60 Mbps during the evening. It’s the ultimate choice for 4K video streaming and online gaming.
What NBN Speed Do I Need?
Still thinking, What NBN Speed Do I Need?
Well, you are not alone. With so many options, you will feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to be. Just remember, choosing an NBN speed depends on two things – your internet use and your budget.
A Basic Evening Speed might be your go-to if you are a lone rider casually browsing the net. You can browse seamlessly without putting a dent in your budget.
However, a bustling household with multiple devices and avid streamers might want to ride the NBN100 wave for an unrivalled experience. It will cost more. But the browsing experience would be totally worth every penny you spend. Besides, your NBN internet provider might offer a discount in some cases.
Know the Factors Affecting Your Internet Speed
Although your RSP provides a high-speed connection, your internet speed might fluctuate. Here are some factors that can affect your internet speed:
- Your network traffic will affect your internet speed. Peak hours can slow your connection as more users hit the online highway.
- Similarly, equipment quality can also affect your browsing experience. In such cases, using outdated routers or modems may feel like trying to win a V8 race in a rusty old ute.
- Also, neighbouring networks and electronic devices can hog your Wi-Fi signal.
- The distance between your home and the node also matters. FTTN connections, the farther you are from the node, the slower your speed.
- In-house interference like microwaves, baby monitors, and even thick walls can disrupt your signal.
Can I Upgrade to a Better NBN Speed?
Absolutely! Upgrading your NBN speed is often easy. Your NBN internet provider probably offers a range of plans to suit your needs. Just give them a call, and they’ll help you upgrade to a plan that matches your need for speed. At RBE, we offer seamless transition from one NBN plan to another.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the lowdown on NBN speeds. Whether you’re a solo surfer or part of a wave-catching household, choosing the right NBN plan can make all the difference. Don’t let slow internet be a snag in your online journey. Shift into high gear, choose the right NBN speed, and ride the internet wave like a true Aussie.
Do you need a new NBN connection or upgrade your existing NBN speed? At RBE Internet, we offer several NBN plans, ranging from FTTP to fixed wireless. Contact us to select your plan now!
