Since the world went WFH, it’s become even more important to stay online, and even more annoying when we’re not. Finally, we wanted to properly acknowledge the modem-router category for the roughly 39% of Australian homes using FTTN and FTTB NBN technologies, with the winner going to the best option available at retailers and purchasable from multiple providers.The raw, piercing fury that descends when your wifi decides it can’t be bothered anymore never gets easier to bear. The best mesh WiFi system is meant for larger homes or abodes with wireless ‘black spots’, and the winner goes to the highest-ranked one that’s available for purchase. We also thought it was important to include a provider NBN modem-router category as this can help simplify actively getting online and reactive tech support. For our cheap category, we only considered models that were below $200.

The best overall winner goes to a future-proofed model that’s a great investment today (and should be well into the future). We checked to ensure they were still available for sale, then compared them across score, price and features. Our first step for determining the best NBN routers, modem-routers and mesh WiFi systems was to create a list of the ones we’ve recently reviewed.

That said, consider investing more in future-proofed gear with WiFi 6, far-reaching mesh WiFi systems or other advanced features that allow you to upgrade to beyond-NBN 100 plans in the future. If you want a budget solution, go with cheaper WiFi 5 routers and modem-routers, which should pair well with connections up to NBN 100. When purchasing outright, consider the size of your home and whether there are any potential blockages, such as thick walls or multi-storey factors.Note that most routers and modem-routers will be compatible in terms of connection but may not be covered by a provider’s tech support. Most NBN providers we track in our comparison engine allow for BYO, but it’s worth checking that your current networking gear is supported.

You can save money by shifting between NBN providers that allow you to bring your own (BYO) modem.

Most homes will be able to use a router or mesh WiFi system without fuss, but FTTN and FTTB abodes will need a modem-router to get online.

The first step when choosing the right NBN-compatible router, modem-router or mesh WiFi system is checking your NBN technology type.

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