NBN Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Issues

There’s nothing more frustrating than slow page load times, video buffering or in-game lag, especially when you’ve paid top dollar for a lightning-quick NBN plan. This guide resolves common NBN problems to help you regain your rightful data transfer speeds.

Understanding NBN Connecting Types

The NBN is a big nation-building infrastructure project enhancing Australia’s online productivity—it’s also a rather fast “video entertainment system.” About 8.6 million homes and businesses use the NBN, representing 81% of the 93% of Australian adults online.  

The NBN connects to your computer in one of three ways:

·         FTTN: Fibre to the Node sees high-speed fibre cables run to a local exchange node, from where slower copper wires provide internet to your premises. This method was quick and cheap to roll out, thus common throughout Australia.

·         FTTC: Fibre to the Curb has fibre run almost to your doorstep, from where copper wires do the rest. Less copper means quicker connection speeds.

·         FTTP: Fibre to the Premises has fibre cables run directly into your property to achieve the fastest possible speeds. FTTP was pricier and slower to install, thus somewhat uncommon.

Users previously had no say over their connection type—you got what you were given. However, NBN Co. now offers a free FTTP upgrade for millions of Australians, provided they sign up for a high-speed plan. Check the NBN Co. website to see if your address qualifies. Upgrading your connection type/plan is probably the most effective thing you can do to ramp up speed.

Troubleshooting Common NBN Connection Problems

Like any tech system, your NBN connection is susceptible to problems. But more often than not, the connection issue lies somewhere in your home rather than the national network. Give these quick troubleshooting tips a try:

·         Test your connection speed to determine its performance.

·         Review all your network cables to ensure none have become loose, unplugged or frayed.

·         Power cycle the NBN box or modem/router.

o   Unplug the device and wait about 30 seconds for it to clear its cache.

o   Plug the device back in and wait another 30 seconds for it to boot.

o   Check the manual to determine if all the correct lights are illuminated.

·         Ask around your household to see if anyone is using excessive bandwidth by downloading large files or streaming 4K shows. Third-party applications like GlassWire let you analyse network activity.

·         Test the internet by connecting an Ethernet cable to a laptop or PC and configuring it. If the connection works well with a physical cable, you have a WiFi issue.

Of course, it is possible NBN Co. is the problem. Visit their website to determine if there is a service outage in your area. Also, check your ISP website to see if it has reported any issues.

Another possibility is your modem isn’t up to scratch. Upgrade your current equipment if it doesn’t support 5GHz with either 802.11n or 802.11ac standards. FTTN connections require VDSL2 modems, while FTTP connections must support a Gigabit Wide Area Network (WAN).

Optimising Your NBN Speed & Stability

The best way to avoid speed-related NBN connection issues is to upgrade your plan and connection type. But there are a few other things you can do to enhance stability and bandwidth.

·         Regular router reboots and firmware upgrades can improve speed and stability.

·         Surge protectors can safeguard your equipment against power fluctuations to prevent sudden disconnections.  

·         Avoid peak periods (usually 6-10 pm) to reduce network saturation and obtain a faster, more reliable connection.

·         Create a secure WiFi password to stop unauthorised access.

·         Turn off any VPNs, as these can slow connection speeds. 

WiFi Bands

Select the most suitable WiFi band, usually 2.4GHz or 5GHz. A 2.4GHz connection is slower and more susceptible to interference from other electronic devices, but has better stability and range. The speedier 5GHz connection is less prone to interference but has a smaller coverage area.

Modem Positioning

The closer you are to your modem, the better your connection will be. Aim to have line of sight by placing it in a raised central area—use a bookshelf rather than the floor.

Ensure your modem isn’t smothered behind WiFi-absorbing objects such as brick or concrete walls, electronic appliances (TVs, microwaves, fridges, etc.), or big metallic things like panels, mirrors, or shelves. If you only see one or two solid bars on your device’s WiFi symbol, the connection strength is low. A WiFi extender or mesh system can boost the signal.

Geeks2U: Professional NBN Troubleshooting Assistance

By following the steps in this guide, you can resolve most NBN and internet-related issues. Some problems, however, require a helping hand. Contact Geeks2U for expert network and NBN box troubleshooting services delivered directly to your door.

FAQ

• Why is my NBN box not working?

  There could be a problem with your modem or cabling or an outage with your ISP or the NBN.

• What lights should be on the NBN box?

  A flashing green light indicates normal operation.

• How do I reset my NBN connection device?

  Turn the device off at the power point and wait for one minute. Turn the device back on again and wait for one minute more.

• What do flashing lights on the NBN box mean?

  Flashing green means normal operation, flashing amber means starting up or configuring, and flashing red means a system fault.

• How to reset the NBN box?

  Press and hold the reset button on the side of the device for a few seconds. It can take up to 20 minutes to fully reset.