Can I use my modem when switching nbn^® providers?

Short answer: yes!

At Tangerine, we know that having the right equipment is crucial for a seamless and affordable internet experience.

That's why we offer a Bring Your Own (BYO) modem option for all our nbn^® plans.

But hey, just like a solid connection matters in a relationship, make sure your BYO device matches your tech setup.

Here's a quick guide to help you make the most of your Tangerine connection using your BYO modem.

Important considerations

The age and capability of your modem is important as it can impact the speed and reliability of your internet connection.

We recommend using modems and cables less than three years old and recycling your old hardware if you can.

Issues such as slow internet or lagging speeds are frequently linked to outdated modems operating with obsolete or old technology.

Positioning is also important.

A microwave (and other electronic devices) can emit tremendous energy and interfere with your WiFi network. So make sure to pop your popcorn before you start watching Netflix!

Know your connection type

To set up your new nbn^® plan with Tangerine, you need to know what type of connection you have.

You can find this out by entering your address here.

Below are the types of nbn^® connections and their differences:

Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): where fibre optic cables run directly to your premise. This is often considered to be the best nbn^® connection type because it is more consistent in delivering high speeds.

Fibre to the Node (FTTN): where there is an optical fibre to a street cabinet, and this is then connected to your property using existing copper networks. The nbn^® FTTP upgrade program provides eligible premises the opportunity to upgrade from an FTTN connection to an FTTP connection, for access to higher speeds and a more reliable connection. Check if you’re eligible here.

Fibre to the Curb (FTTC): where fibre optic cables extend close to your premises (usually a transition point inside a pit) and then connect to your property using the existing copper network. FTTC is considered a reliable alternative to FTTP. The nbn^® FTTP upgrade program provides eligible premises the opportunity to upgrade from FTTC connection to an FTTP connection, for access to higher speeds and a more reliable connection. Check if you’re eligible here.

Fibre to the Building (FTTB): where fibre optic cables run to an apartment (or similar building) communications room, using existing technology to connect each apartment or unit. This can be copper in older buildings or ethernet cables in newer ones.

Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial (HFC): when existing pay TV or cable TV infrastructure (e.g. an old Foxtel connection) is used to enable the final part of the nbn^® connection to your property. HFC only serves a small area where it has already been installed.

Fixed Wireless (FW): where the connection is wireless through a transmission tower to an outdoor nbn^® antenna located on your premise. Fixed Wireless technology is similar to 4G and 5G networks.

Know your modem compatibility

By this point, you should have a good grasp of your connection type.

Now, it's time to figure out if your BYO modem is a good match for it.

PPPoE, or Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet, is a method used to connect multiple devices within a local network to the internet via a broadband connection. PPPoE requires a username and password, typically provided by an Internet Service Provider, to establish a secure connection between the user's device and the internet.

Think of a WAN (Wide Area Network) as a digital highway that connects different cities and towns. Just like roads allow cars to travel between places, WANs enable computers and devices in one location to communicate with those in another, no matter how far apart they are. This network is essential for activities like sending emails between countries, accessing websites globally, and connecting offices of big companies worldwide.

VDSL, or Very High Bit Rate Digital Subscriber Line, is a technology that provides internet access over traditional telephone lines. VDSL is typically faster than previous ADSL technology as it uses a combination of fibre and your existing copper infrastructure. It's like giving your old phone line a turbo boost. VDSL allows faster data transmission by using more advanced technology, making it possible to stream videos, play online games, and download large files quickly, all while using the same phone line you've had for years.

Configuration assistance

While our technical team is here to help with BYO device configuration, the large variety of devices on the market means we can only provide best effort support for someBYO devices. Find out more about configuring a BYO device here.

If you opt for BYO, having a good understanding of configuring your device is very useful.

Still uncertain

If you're unsure about your device's compatibility or configuration, you can reach out to our friendly technical team on 1800 211 112.

We recommend opting for one of our pre-configured nbn^® modems, such as the eero 6+ and NetComm modems.

These modems are hassle-free and ready to use right out of the box!

You can find out which modem we recommend for your property by entering your address here.

Whether you prefer the flexibility of bringing your own device or the simplicity of our pre-configured options – we’ve got you covered!