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What factors can affect the speed of my internet connection?

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When connected on a service with a higher plan speed, you shouldn't expect that everything you download or stream will always be at the maximum speed of your plan.

There are many factors that will affect your actual speeds (what you will see on a speed test). These include:

  • The type and source of the content being downloaded - i.e. the website, server and protocols in use

  • The performance of infrastructure not operated by Aussie Broadband - this includes the parts of the nbn® network (or wholesale infrastructure)

  • How your device is connecting to the internet - when using WiFi, you may experience slower speeds than what can be achieved by connecting your device(s) with a network cable. For more, see Hardware issues below.

  • Any service faults that have or have not yet been reported to or identified by Aussie Broadband

  • Any limitations of the user’s home network that may or may not have been reported to Aussie Broadband - this includes factors such as data cabling, bridged networks, or the number of connected devices

  • The technical limitations of your NBN connection type:

    • FTTB/N customers will be affected by their speed potential (see Speed potential below)

    • Fixed Wireless customers may be affected by congestion at their nearest cell tower

    • HFC customers may be affected by network segmentation

Hardware issues

Many routers/modems are not designed for higher speeds over WiFi connections. The current technology for delivering high speeds over WiFi is called WiFi 6; it's worth checking if your hardware supports this version.

To get the most out of your high-speed plan, we recommend using an ethernet cable for your devices. If that's not possible, our recommended router the Netcomm NF20MESH. Have a chat with our Customer Service team if you wish to purchase any of the hardware we sell.

Speed potential on Fibre to the Node (FTTN)

For FTTN and FTTB customers, there is a theoretical maximum speed known as your speed potential. This is determined by several factors as outlined below:

  • Distance to the node

  • Quality of the copper path including internal cabling

  • Number of phone points at your premises

  • Other devices connected to your phone points (ie. back to base alarms)

  • Legacy copper services still active in your area ie ADSL, Fixed Phones, etc. (co-existence)

Upon connection of a new FTTN/B service, we will notify customers via email of their current speed potential and offer for them to adjust their plan without financial penalty if maximum speeds are unobtainable on their selected speed tier.

If you'd like us to check your speed potential again, don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly Customer Service team on 1300 880 905.

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