Hi guys, I am looking for some advice on my NBN connection. Specifically in relation to cabling/connection point, and also modem/router.
Some background first:
• I'm in my house since 2015. When I moved in the only option for internet connection I had was Optus Cable, which is what the previous owners had as well.
• At that time I connected the Optus provided modem/router at Phone Line 1 – see images here: https://imgur.com/a/jUOl9Ze
• I had NBN (FTTC) connected in 2020 when it became available in the area. When the NBN technician came to do the cabling, he told me he could run the cables to that Phone Line 1 (which is facing exterior wall) or run the cables along the side of the property to my main living area. There was an existing phone line there (Phone Line 2) but that is not facing an exterior wall, its on an interior wall.
• I opted to just get it connected to Phone Line 1 as that is the point I was using for my Cable service, and I did not want to run the risk of shoddy drilling/workmanship.
• This went all ok. But after couple of months of this install I decided to move the NBN box + Optus modem/router from Phone Line 1 to Phone Line 2 – thinking placing it more centrally in the house makes more sense than having this sit near my front door.
• I wasn't sure if my speed would be impacted given the NBN guy ran the cable only to Phone Line 1. But again, no issues. I've continued to get the advertised 50/20 speeds.
The now:
• So now its 2025, and I figure its time for me to upgrade to FTTP which I've had available for some time.
• Also, with WFH and frequent video calls, I'm starting to experience some video lags (even though speed tests continue to show 50/20 speeds).
• Plus, I guess paying $84 per month for the Optus Internet Everyday 50/20 plan is not the best value.
Next steps:
• I'll stick with Optus for now given I've had Optus Sport with them, and I will continue to benefit having the Stan subscription for only $10 per month until January 2026.
• I plan on subscribing to the 100/18 plan and get the free FTTP upgrade.
Questions:
1) Similar to when I first got FTTC installed, can I get the NBN technician to just run the necessary cabling to Phone Line 1, and keep my NBN box and Optus modem/router at Phone Line 2?
2) If/when I decide to switch away from Optus to another provider, can I still use the Optus Ultra WiFi Modem Gen 2? Or will I have to get my own modem/router? Note: I've "paid off" the Ultra WiFi Modem Gen 2
Keen to get some thoughts.
TIA.
The fibre gets connected to the nbn NTD box and can't be separated.
The technician will probably put the nbn NTD box where P1 enters the home. Put the router here or get ethernet installed from the nbn NTD box to anywhere you want the router setup. They may put the nbn NTD box where P2 enters if it's easily accessible.
Optus Ultra Gen 2 router can be re-used (VoIP is locked to Optus). Purchase a new router if you want better Wi-Fi speeds and range and access to all the router settings.