“Do you want to add a modem or will you configure your own?” This question strikes fear in the hearts of many who aren't tech-savvy. It's one thing to sign up for a new broadband service but another entirely to configure your own modem. Or is it?
Tweaking the settings of your existing modem so it's compatible with your new internet service or NBN plan isn't as tricky as it seems. And to prove it, we'll walk you through it step-by-step so you can save a few dollars, avoid locking yourself into a plan and extend your current modem's lifespan.
How to configure your own modem
It goes without saying each internet provider and modem/modem router will be configured slightly differently. Unfortunately, it would take hours to cover every single device and every provider out there so, instead, we'll walk you through the basic steps you'll need to get connected.
- Ensure all your modem cables are connected and plugged in. Turn on your modem and wait at least five minutes for it to fully boot up.
- Once you have received confirmation that your new NBN plan is up and running, usually via text or email, connect to the WiFi network on the device you plan to configure your modem with. We recommend using a laptop or a tablet as opposed to a phone for better usability.
NOTE: This will connect your device to the modem but you won't be able to access the internet yet to browse normally. This is because you haven't technically set up your modem or modem router yet. - Open your preferred internet browser. The most popular browsers are Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, Bing and Opera.
- In the URL bar across the top, enter the gateway IP address located on the back of your modem. It will look something like this: 192.168. 1.1. Gateway addresses are designed to load despite having no internet connection. There are a vast number of gateway addresses per modem/modem router. If you're unsure what yours is, or it doesn't work, we recommend searching your modem model number online.
- When you are prompted, enter your modem's username and password in the fields provided to log into your modem's network. Usually, these details can be found on the back of your modem or modem router, assuming you haven't changed them.
NOTE: Some providers may not require these next two steps, for example, Aussie Broadband. Depending on your connection type, simply resetting the router should be enough. - Once you log in, you'll see a homepage with a range of different sections. These may be titled something like Basic and Advanced with tabbed sections like Network Map, Wireless or WiFi Control, Parental Controls and 5G (if your modem has that capability).
- Look for the section that asks for your Username and Password. Because your modem is still set up/configured to your old network, you'll want to replace these details with your new internet name and password provided by your new ISP.
Note: This won't be the Network Name or Password on your modem/modem router. - If you have followed all these steps correctly, congratulations! Your modem will be configured and your internet status in the gateway will read connected. If not, we recommend reaching out to your ISP. In some cases, they may not have finalised the process on their end or they can help you troubleshoot from here.
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Common gateway IP addresses
Below is a list of some of the most common gateway IP addresses for specific modems:
D-Link:
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.0.10
- 192.168.0.101
- 192.168.0.30
- 192.168.0.50
- 192.168.1.254
- 192.168.15.1
- 192.168.254.254
- 10.0.0.1
- 10.0.0.2
- 10.1.1.1
- 10.90.90.90
Huawei:
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.3.1
- 192.168.8.1
- 192.168.100.1
- 10.0.0.138
MSI:
- 192.168.1.254
Netgear:
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.0.227
NetComm:
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.10.50
- 192.168.20.1
- 10.0.0.138
Seimens:
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.1.254
- 192.168.2.1
- 192.168.254.254
- 10.0.0.138
- 10.0.0.2
TP-Link:
- 192.168.1.1
- 192.168.0.1
- 192.168.0.254
When can't I configure my own modem?
There are a few instances where you may need a new modem instead of configuring your current modem. These could include:
- Your current modem being too old
- You're switching to the NBN for the first time
- Your modem isn't fast enough for high-speed NBN
- You may need a specific modem type, like a 5G-compatible modem
- You may want a modem with 4G backup and your current hardware doesn't offer that
Some providers may also insist you purchase their modem to ensure it works correctly, to enable features like 4G backup, or to minimise troubleshooting.
BYO modem configuration instructions
Some providers offer customers instructions for configuring their own modem. Below are links to a few helpful provider-specific configuration guides:
How to configure your own modem FAQs
What does modem configuration mean?
Configuring your modem means properly setting it up to receive and distribute your internet connection.
How long does it take for a modem to connect to NBN?
A modem or modem router provided by your ISP should only take a few minutes to set up. Configuring your current modem with your new network could take anywhere between a few minutes to up to half an hour to set up.
Can you buy and set up your own modem?
Yes, you can use your own modem. Unless your chosen modem isn't compatible with the NBN or your ISP specifically states you need to use their modem with their internet service, there's no reason why you can't purchase and configure your own modem or modem router. If you're unsure what NBN connection type you have, check out our guide.
How often should you replace your modem?
Every piece of hardware has a lifespan. The general rule of thumb for modems is to replace them between two and five years. Higher-end models usually last longer than cheaper models so they can get away with up to five years.
Should I get a new modem if it's free with my plan?
Accepting a modem offered by an ISP, especially if its a free modem or won't lock you into a contract, is always a good idea. It mitigates problems down the road and makes troubleshooting easier if you need to give them a call. However, most ISPs don't offer free or contract-free modems and recycling your perfectly usable technology is always a more sustainable option.
These are the most popular NBN 50 plans with WhistleOut users this week:
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#1
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Dodo
All Fixed Line nbn®
Editor's Pick
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$57.99/mth
Min. cost $57.99
|
|
#2
|
amaysim
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN50
$45/mth
Min. cost $45
|
|
#3
|
Tangerine Telecom
All Fixed Line nbn®
Value Plus NBN 50/20
$64.90/mth
Min. cost $64.90
|
|
#4
|
TPG
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$69.99/mth
Min. cost $69.99
Link not supplied
|
|
#5
|
Aussie Broadband
All Fixed Line nbn®
Value nbn - Unlimited
$70/mth
Min. cost $70
Link not supplied
|
|
#6
|
Superloop
All Fixed Line nbn®
Extra-value nbn50/20
$69/mth
Min. cost $69
|
|
#7
|
iiNet
All Fixed Line nbn®
nbn50 Liimitless
$69.99/mth
+ $10 Upfront
Min. cost $79.99
Link not supplied
|
|
#8
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Belong
All Fixed Line nbn®
NBN Standard Plus – Unlimited
$55/mth
Min. cost $55
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|
#9
|
Kogan Internet
All Fixed Line nbn®
Silver Unlimited
$69.90/mth
Min. cost $69.90
|
|
#10
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Flip
All Fixed Line nbn®
Unlimited Family nbn50
$68/mth
Min. cost $68
|
Christie Graham
Digital Content Editor
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