Do I need a landline connected to get unlimited wireless broadband which allows up to 5 people to connect?

Hi David,

First of all, getting "wireless" or "WiFi" broadband is just a matter of the hardware that you use. If you get an ADSL2+ enabled WiFi modem, you'll be able to broadcast your internet signal around your house and allow as many people as you want to connect to the internet via PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and even televisions. Some providers offer a modem for free (usually on longer contracts), while others require you to buy one. The giveaway for the fact that it's WiFi will be the antenna.

Home phone connections and ADSL2+ connections are traditionally bundled together, but it is possible now to get a broadband connection without a home phone. This is called Naked Broadband, or Naked DSL.

Some people think that getting Naked DSL will save you money on line rental fees. However, it's important to keep in mind that you haven't actually stopped using that "phone line". The "phone line" is in fact a copper line that is used to connect both your internet and your home phone, so no matter what, that line is being used and your provider will be paying wholesale rental fees to Telstra. You're going to get charged for that, too, it's just that it won't be called line rental, and will just be another charge factored into your monthly bill.

Often it's cheaper to sign up for a good bundle deal and just not use the home phone. You could look into TPG's Unlimited ADSL2+ and Home Phone plan for $59.99 per month. The plan gives you unlimited internet with the home phone, and it doesn't include the cost of any calls, meaning that it's perfect for those who just want unlimited internet at a great price without having to worry about paying for services they don't use (i.e. phone calls). To find out more or sign up with TPG today, give us a call on 1300 106 571.

Dodo also offers great low price bundles. You could try the Dodo Unlimited ADSL2+ and Home Phone Bundle for $59.80 a month. If you sign up for Dodo's plan on a 0 month contract, they'll give you a free modem and free set-up, although you should double check to make sure the modem is WiFi! Call Dodo for more information or to sign up today on 1300 136 793.

If you really want to avoid the home phone, though, there are some good Naked Broadband providers out there. You could try MyNetFone. They don't offer an unlimited plan, but they do offer the MyNetFone 500GB Naked DSL plan for $59.95 per month, which gives you 250GB peak and 250GB off-peak – more than enough for most people, and you can buy extra data packs if you have an unexpectedly heavy month. MyNetFone offer a free WiFi modem and free set-up on a 12 month contract. Call MyNetFone for more information or to sign up today on 1300 106 571.

I hope this helps! If you have any further questions, feel free to give us a call on 1300 106 571.

Mikaella.