Choosing The Right Type of Internet Connection

A reliable internet connection is crucial in the modern world. Many internet options are available, making selecting the right internet type overwhelming. The right internet can simplify moving homes—removing the stress of new home connections.

This article explores the different types of internet connections available, helping you choose the right one. In this article, we cover how to find:

• Connection types and the things to consider:
  • Internet types in Australia
• Why choosing the right provider matters
• Things to consider:
  • High-speed internet
  • Broadband connection
  • Location
  • Price and plan
  • Customer service
• Tips:
  • How to connect NBN and the internet.
  • Finding the cheapest NBN plans and internet.
  • Finding the best NBN provider and internet for you.
• How to simplify new internet and NBN connections.
• Additional information on Utility providers:
  • Electricity and gas plans

Understanding Internet Connection Types

Before looking at what internet connections you need for your internet usage, let’s examine the type of connections available.

The most common types of internet connections are:

• ADSL Connection uses existing telephone lines to transmit data. It offers download speeds of up to 24Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1Mbps.
• Cable connection uses the same infrastructure as cable TV to deliver internet access. It offers download speeds of up to 100Mbps and upload speeds of up to 40Mbps.
• NBN Connection uses fibre optic cables to transmit data. It has faster internet speeds than traditional cables. It offers download speeds of up to 1000Mbps and upload speeds of up to 400Mbps.
• Satellite Connection uses a satellite dish to connect to the internet. It is available in remote or rural areas. With download speeds of up to 25Mbps and upload speeds of up to 5Mbps.

Now you understand the different types of internet connections, let’s take a closer the options.

ADSL

ADSL is the most widely available type of internet connection. Because it uses existing telephone lines, it is a popular choice for people living in urban areas. However, the further you get from the telephone exchange, the slower your connection gets.

ADSL is affordable, typically being the cheapest of all internet connections. It is a viable choice for budget-conscious individuals. ADSL internet speeds vary by location and telephone line quality.

Cable

Cable internet offers faster speeds than ADSL. It is not as readily available as ADSL. Cable is known for its speeds, with download speeds up to 100Mbps. However, cable is more expensive than traditional internet options.

NBN internet

NBN is the fastest and most reliable internet available. Fibre optic cables transmit data with download speeds up to 1000Mbps. However, NBN has not been rolled out Australia-wide yet, so it has limited availability.

NBN is known for its fast internet speed. It is ideal for reliable and fast streaming, gaming or work connections. NBN may be more expensive than traditional connections and unavailable in some locations.

Satellite

Satellite internet is perfect for remote locations where other connections are unavailable.

A Satellite dish is used to supply internet to typically inaccessible locations. However, satellite internet is more expensive and may have slower connection speeds. It may be unsuitable for activities such as streaming and gaming.

Why Choosing the Right Internet Provider Matters

Once you know which type of internet connection is best for your usage, the next step is finding the right provider. Australia has various Internet providers, each with different plans and costs. But why is choosing the right internet provider important?

Reliable internet is crucial in the modern world for working, connecting with friends and family, and streaming entertainment. Poor internet connection is frustrating and interrupts modern life.

Reliable internet is even more crucial for businesses. The Internet is the crux of communication, transactions, and general productivity. It is used for more than just sales; it is essential to finding and maintaining customers. Slow or unreliable internet negatively impacts revenue and can damage your company’s reputation.

Things to consider when selecting your internet provider:

You should consider various things when looking for the right internet provider or your new NBN connections.

Internet Speed and Bandwidth

You must consider the speed and bandwidth offered by the internet provider. Internet speeds are measured in Mbps, indicating how fast data can be transmitted. Internet bandwidth is how much data can be transferred at one time.

Your speed requirements will vary depending on how you use your internet. Basic streaming and browsing typically only require 25 Mbps. Higher speeds and bandwidth may be needed for multiple devices, online gaming, or video conferencing. We recommend doing an NBN speed test to check your speeds.

Availability and Coverage

Different providers have different locational availability.  Check your preferred provider’s availability and area coverage information on their website or by calling customer service. Many websites have online tools where you can input your postcode to check availability.

Price and Plans

Price and plans are a crucial consideration. Comparing plans and prices from different NBN providers ensures you get the best deal.

Some providers offer packages that bundle multiple products for an additional discount. Considering service needs and your budget will ensure you find the best provider and cheap NBN plans if it’s what you’re after.

Customer Service and Support

When handling internet outages or service disruptions, reliable customer service is crucial. Customer reviews and ratings provide insight into how the company has treated other customers. You could also reach out to customer service with questions. This can give you insight into company responsiveness.

Contract and Fees

Make sure you understand the terms of the contract and any additional fees. Certain providers have long-term lock-in contracts, while others have month-to-month agreements.

Read the fine print and check for additional fees, e.g., installation and equipment rental fees. Additionally, some providers have costly cancellation fees if you end your service before the contract terminates.

Technology and Equipment

Technology and equipment requirements vary by internet provider. This can impact your internet experience and cause cost variations. Some providers have fibre-option connections, while others work with ADSL or cable connections.

The equipment provided differs by the service provider. Check whether modem and routers are included in contract costs or whether you need to purchase your own. Additionally, if you have a large home/business, you may require a Wi-Fi extender.

Tips for Selecting the Best Internet Service Provider

So, now you know what you require from your internet provider. The following tips can help simplify the process of finding the best ISP:

Research and Compare Providers

Research and compare providers by looking at your area’s services, prices, and plans.

Check for Special Offers and Discounts

Many providers have deals and discounts for new customers or specific products. Check provider websites or contact customer services to see what promotions are available. These deals could help you save on installation fees or a discounted rate.

Ask About Contract Flexibility

We understand that different customers have different needs; some want no-lock-in contracts. Check out your provider’s contract terms and see if there is contract flexibility. Or consider a provider that offers month-to-month contracts to ensure flexibility.

Consider Bundled Services

If you’re like most Australians, you’ll need more than one service-connected. Bundling your NBN with energy and gas services can save you money and make managing your services more accessible. Energy providers and gas providers add an extra layer of complication to moving home; having them all under one utility provider simplifies management and bills.

So, now you have all the essential information and are ready to connect broadband, but you’re still overwhelmed?

           

Simplifying the process:

Moving home is stressful; the stress can be astronomical when finding the right internet provider.  We recommend using a moving utility service like Move In Connect to simplify your move. Moving utility service providers specialise in getting your new home internet sorted.

They work with a panel of preferred providers, pairing you with the best plan. All you need to do is enter your details and move-in date, and they sort out all the finer details for you.

Companies, like Move In Connect, can simplify your new home move by setting up your utilities for you.

Move In Connect is an Australian-owned moving utility service based in Melbourne. Our current panel of preferred providers across energy, gas, NBN, Pay TV and mobile services are:

• Energy Australia
• ActewAGL
• Covau
• Tango Energy
• Blue NRG
• Energy Locals
• Ovo energy
• Powershop
• Optus
• TPG
• Foxtel
• Tangerine
• More Telecom
• Aussie Broadband

For help with your move, enter your details at https://www.moveinconnect.com.au/ and get a FREE quote. Moving utilities has never been easier. Get your internet plan, electricity plan and gas plan sorted with minimal effort.

Alternatively, call 1300 786 045; a friendly agent will help connect your home or business. 

We will help you reduce your utility bill by pairing you with the right provider to compare energy and gas.

Our FREE comparison will help you find:

• A cheap internet plan
• A cheap gas plan; and
• A cheap electricity plan.

We will simplify your new home move, sort out your new home utility connection, and find savings for your electricity bills, gas bills and NBN bills.

About the Author:

Raised in far North Queensland, Elsie moved to Melbourne, Victoria, ten years ago and hasn’t looked back. She has a degree in business and communications. Elsie is passionate about transparent communication, loves research, and enjoys helping people understand the utility comparison industry.