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i have a prepaid modem , but i am having trouble getting online and viewing email, i have just moved to a new suburb!

20/08/2011

Hi Adam,

It sounds like you are using mobile wireless broadband, and unfortunately the provider you are with does not offer coverage in your new suburb. This means you could either try purchasing a new mobile wireless broadband service with a provider who offers coverage in your new area, or you may need to change to a fixed line broadband service instead (this will mean a faster speed and a more stable service.

Mobile wireless broadband

If you are on a 3 or Vodafone mobile wireless broadband plan, then you could try using a mobile broadband provider who uses Optus to supply coverage. The following providers offer plans using the Optus network:

Optus: 1300 768 194
Virgin mobile: 1300 106 571
Dodo: 1300 136 793

Each of the providers above offer plans as a prepaid service. You will need to purchase a new modem which will allow you to access the Optus network. I’d recommend giving Optus a call first on the toll free number above to ensure they have good coverage in your new area.

If Optus doesn’t offer coverage, the only other mobile wireless broadband provider who could offer a satisfactory service would be Telstra Bigpond. While their Next G network is relatively fast, you would need to sign up for a 12 or 24-month contract period, and their contracts are considerably more expensive.

ADSL/ADSL2+

I would recommend moving on from mobile wireless broadband, and switching to ADSL1 or ADSL2+ instead. Unfortunately with ADSL1 you will need to connect a home phone line as well, but you could bundle the phone with your broadband to get a cheaper deal. ADSL2+ is available in most metro areas and you can either bundle it with a home phone or get Naked DSL, which is broadband only with no home phone line.

If you have recently connected your home phone with Telstra, be aware there is usually a $100 disconnection fee if you cancel the service within three months, so it may be better to keep the home phone with Telstra for now if this is the case.

You will need to purchase a new ADSL or ADSL2+ modem to connect to the internet. You can purchase a wireless modem so that you can access the network wirelessly within your home.

ADSL1

Dodo 5GB (peak) + 5GB (off peak) 1.5Mbps $59.80 (includes home phone)

Because you have been using a mobile wireless broadband service, I assume you’re a fairly light user. The plan above is a light plan while still offering a faster speed than mobile wireless broadband. The plan includes the phone line rental, and you have a choice between a month-by-month ($99 set-up), 12-month ($69 set-up) or 24-month (free set-up) contract.

You can find out more about what Dodo can offer in your area by calling them on 1300 136 793.

ADSL2+

TPG ADSL2+ $39.99 10GB (peak) + 10GB (off peak) – price includes phone line rental

The setup fee on the TPG six-month contract is $99.95. A TPG WiFi modem is available for $109.95 (including delivery).

Call us on 1300 106 571 to find out more about TPG’s home phone and broadband packages.

Alternatively, you can call any of the providers on our website, who can talk you through their plans.

I hope this answers your question. If you would like any further advice, please give us a call on 1300 106 571.

Alana
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