Hi there, I have a Telstra cable installed which I would like to use but I am unsure what I would need in regards to ADSL ADSL+2 & so forth.

Hi Mara,

There's plenty of deals that could meet your needs (though whether or not they're available needs to be checked. You can call us on 1300 106 571 for that).

We would need to know what you mean by 'Telstra Cable'. If you mean a normal telstra copper phone line (the little plastic hack in the wall), then yes, you can get ADSL2+, from a number of providers. If you mean a Telstra HFC Cable Connection (a screw-on bolt in the wall for Pay TV and Broadband) then that's a bit different. You can get a broadband internet connection through that, but only through BigPond (13 7663). This connecton may be faster, depending on a few different variables, but it would also be significantly more expensive.

Back to ADSL2+ and a good mobile plan. Here's a few combinations that would serve:

TPG 100GB ADSL2+  including line rental - either $50 a month if TPG directly serves the area, or $84 if they don't. Call 1300 106 571.

Dodo 100GB ADSL2+ - same price as above, but with cheaper setup fees and a free modem. Call 1300 136 793

As for Mobiles, we're big fans here of Amaysim's $39.90 Unlimited plan. This is a SIM only plan - you have to bring your own phone. This plan comes with Unlimited free calls to all landlines and mobiles on any network. SMS and picture messaging is also covered. In fact, the only thing not covered are international calls, and even then, international calls are very cheap. Amaysim's mobile app is very easey to use. The plan also comes with 4GB of mobile data for use with smartphones. Call Amaysim on 1300 302 942.

Dodo's Magic SIM plan is actually a little better. For the same amount you get all the same freebies, with 100 free international minutes (to 50 destinations). It comes with 5GB of data. Call Dodo on 1300 136 793.

Both of those plans operate on the Optus Open Network - so it's important to make sure Optus works in your area before proceeding. You may want to check with friends and neighbours to see if they're on the Optus network and how that's going for them.

If dropouts are the main issue, you may well find that Telstra is the only mobile network that will actually work. Telstra's network is far denser - in other words, more towers in more places, allowing for fewer black spots as each tower 'cell' overlaps strongly with another. But even telstra's network can't overcome some obstacles. If you're in a true geographic black spot, then you'll still have problems. Best to test out a Telstra pre-paid SIM for a month and see how you go, if it comes to that.

So all up, you could get away with a great value ADSL2+ connection and an all-you-can-eat phone plan for $90 a month! If you need help finding out what would be available, please give us a call.

Thanks,

Adam at CompareBroadband

1300 106 571