NBN is Australia’s largest and most comprehensive digital infrastructure project. Ideally, it should provide fast, reliable internet access, but some NBN users experience slow speeds or connection issues that can be extremely frustrating.
If you often experience slow NBN speeds, read on for insightful tips and tricks to enhance your internet speeds.
Potential Reasons Why Your NBN is Slow
There are several reasons why your NBN could be running slow, such as:
- Network Congestion
Network congestion occurs when too many people try accessing the same network, resulting in slower speeds and connection issues for everyone on the grid. This can be especially problematic during peak times when internet usage tends to be highest.
- Hardware Issues
Hardware issues can also be a potential cause of slow NBN speeds. If you have an old router incompatible with the NBN, consider investing in a new one.
It’s also possible that your modem/router has an incorrect configuration. Verifying all settings, including logins, passwords and network name (SSID), would be best. Carefully check each setting within your router’s administrative control panel; even minor discrepancies can create speed issues.
- Distance from the Node
Your location plays a significant role in the performance of your NBN connection. The closer you are to an NBN node, the higher speeds you can expect and vice versa. This is because data travelling over fibre-optic cables degrade over distance.
- Plan Speed
Plan speed is the maximum speed that your subscription allows you to access. If this number is too low, then you won’t be able to get the best out of your broadband experience.
- Connection Issues
Devices like cordless phones and microwave ovens emit radio frequencies. Such frequencies can disrupt internet connections due to their proximity to hardware components.
Try moving any suspected sources away from your setup to improve signal quality. Loose cables can also lead to slower speeds, so double-check these before accepting low performance.
Ways to Fix a Slow NBN Speed
To ensure you get the best out of your NBN connection without any speed bumps, here are some tips and tricks for improving your experience.
Run a Speed Test to Help Troubleshoot the Issue
When troubleshooting a slow NBN connection, a speed test will provide valuable data on the current speeds, allowing you to compare them against your plan’s maximums. If there is an apparent discrepancy, it could indicate an underlying issue that needs resolving.
Update or Upgrade Your Modem
Some routers have outdated hardware and software that don’t support faster speeds or new technologies. Upgrading your router can help improve performance on the NBN.
Try Mobile Broadband or Home Wireless Broadband
You can try mobile or wireless broadband if you struggle to get consistent high speeds even after upgrading your router. Both use cellular networks rather than cables to prevent distance-related degradation.
Sign Up for a Faster Speed Tier
Getting a faster speed tier from your provider can help improve performance.
Most companies offer packages ranging up to hundreds of Mbps, depending on your budget constraints and usage requirements.
Change NBN Provider
Changing providers may be effective if none of these measures makes a difference.
Different companies use unique technologies, so switching ISPs can give you access to more suitable plans while avoiding potential interference from other users in your area.
Various factors can affect the speed of your NBN connection, from poor signal strength to outdated firmware or insufficient plan speeds. It’s best to research what could be causing slowdowns before jumping straight into upgrading hardware or changing providers.
Contact a recognised NBN technician to help you optimise your broadband experience.