Because of the differing nature of NBN connection types, the answer is “maybe”. Fibre to the Node/Basement connections use a technology called VDSL, which few modems support – and even if you have one that does, it may not be compatible with the NBN or your ISP, so check with them first. Fibre to the Home doesn’t use a modem at all – just a router. You can connect many broadband modem/routers direct to the NBN box in your home, though, and use them as normal. Again, check with your ISP to make sure it’s compatible. If in doubt, use the modem/router provided by your ISP.

It’s still some way off happening, but ultimately, the cable that’s used for Telstra and Optus broadband now will eventually be upgraded and become part of the NBN. You won’t lose access to your current service – it’ll just get transferred over to the new, faster version of the cable. But when that happens, you’ll also suddenly have a wide choice of internet providers to choose from, instead of just one or two.

Once the NBN is in your area and ready to go, you can pick an internet provider and plan from our comparison above, then sign up and be connected in a few days or even less (sometimes even the same day!) The reason is that unlike ADSL, which required a technician to physically visit your local phone exchange to plug you into the network – a process that could take weeks to happen – an internet provider can order an NBN connection for you and have it done automatically. You may still have a wait for the modem – or even for a technician to come and install wiring in your home – but it’s still substantially faster to get connected than ADSL – and much easier to switch providers, too.