Getting a new internet service connected or switching to the NBN for the first time generally takes around ten days from the time of order, however this may be significantly longer or shorter depending on the type of service.
Every telco and every household will be different, but in this guide, we lay out how long it should take for your new connection to be up and running.
Switching providers: how much downtime to expect
How much downtime you can expect when switching providers will depend on your connection type.
If this isn’t your first NBN connection, then you can be switched over from one provider to another in as little as 15 minutes. In some circumstances like public holidays, you might end up waiting as long as 48 hours.
Still, provided that your technology or connection type remains the same then there is usually no downtime when switching your NBN connection from one provider to another. The process is simple, hands-off, and one of the easiest ways to save money on your monthly internet bill.
Similar to changing your gas or electricity provider, your new provider usually handles all the complicated technical stuff. In most cases, all you'll need to provide an 15-digit code called an AVC ID. This can be found on your last bill from your previous provider and is needed in order to identify your connection and confirm you're authorised to transfer the service.
Your new provider will usually let your old one know to disconnect your service once the switchover has completed. Even so, it might be good practice to check in with them and make sure you aren't looking at a surprise bill later down the line.
Switching your NBN connection: How long does it take?
Assuming that your premise is NBN-ready at the time of order, most providers estimate ten working days to set up a new connection, but this may differ depending on your technology type.
The NBN consists of seven technology types:
- Fibre to the Premises (FTTP)
- Fibre to the Building (FTTB)
- Fibre to the Curb (FTTC)
- Fibre to the Node (FTTN)
- Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
- NBN Fixed Wireless
- Sky Muster satellite
Each type is connected to the same network, however, some utilise more copper, or operate via wireless or satellite connections. It is important to note that you don’t get to choose your technology type. However, depending on your technology type and location, it may be possible to upgrade to FTTP. If you're already eligible to do so, all you need to do to trigger the upgrade process is order an NBN 500 plan or faster. Read more about the process of requesting a free FTTP upgrade here.
Different technologies have different setups, some of which require a technician to visit, and in turn, can bolster your wait time. In some cases, such as new developments where the in-home install has already taken place, you’re likely to have a much shorter wait time. The same is true for FTTB connections, where the NBN technician will simply visit and install the required hardware in a central location. Fixed Wireless NBN connections and Sky Muster satellite installs are a lengthier process.
Internet service providers are responsible for connecting your premises to the NBN technology equipment, however, the NBN itself is responsible before that time. How long your wait time is will vary depending on the availability of registered NBN technicians at the time.
Here are the cheapest NBN plans in our database this month for a variety of speed tiers.
Switching your home wireless internet: How long does it take?
Unlike internet connections that rely on cabling, home wireless simply uses the existing mobile networks to connect you to the internet.
As the infrastructure is already in place, connecting a wireless broadband internet connection takes the shipping time of your modem and the time it takes to unbox it and plug it into a wall socket. This is the same if it is a 4G or a 5G home wireless connection. The modem will connect to your chosen network and you will immediately be able to browse the web.
There are a few situations where you may experience some downtime while setting up home wireless. Your provider may be having technical issues, and you could annoyingly happen to be experiencing an outage while you’re trying to connect for the first time. Alternatively, you may be in a location that isn’t covered by your chosen provider’s mobile network and in which case will be unable to connect at all.
Before ordering wireless broadband services it is wise to check your local coverage. You can compare Telstra, Optus and Vodafone coverage on our guides here.
Here are the cheapest home wireless plans in our database this month.
Switching your mobile broadband internet: How long does it take?
Mobile broadband works in the same way as home wireless does. You're connecting to an existing network so all you'll need to do is charge up your modem, and chuck in your SIM card. There shouldn't be any downtime at all.
If you're in a rush and need to get connected fast, mobile broadband is the way to go. Although the data allowances aren't exactly generous, luckily most plans are contract-free if you buy the modem or dongle outright.
Here are the cheapest mobile broadband plans in our database this month.
How long does it take to switch to an NBN alternative?
Despite how far-reaching the NBN is, other private internet connections are available in certain locations across Australia.
The most common of these is private fibre or cable. Vocus has the largest private fibre network in the country which also extends internationally, but other providers such as Launtel and HarbourISP operate on their own private fibre networks.
Elon Musk's Starlink is also an option for those after a private satellite internet connection.
Connection times for these technologies vary greatly depending on the provider.
Anula Wiwatowska
Offsite Editorial Lead | Instagram
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