Hi, is there any way I can definitely find out if I can get adsl or adsl2 without having to sign up to anything?
And is there any way I can find out what sort of speeds I can expect on my line? Tom
03/01/2012
Hi Tom,
There is a process to connecting to an ADSL2+ service, which is common to all Internet Service Providers (ISPs). First, the ISP checks the availability of ADSL2+ by using a coverage checker, either on the customer's address or their phone number.
If the initial check tells the ISP that ADSL2+ is available at the telephone exchange nearest the customer, the ISP will let the customer know and ask if they want to go ahead and sign up to a service.
After the customer has signed up and the ISP has taken the first payment, the ISP will then perform a more in-depth check on the line. This line check shows if the line is capable of carrying an ADSL2+ service. If the line passes the check, the ISP will connect the service. If the line is not suitable for an ADSL2+ connection, the ISP will cancel the service and refund the first payment.
It costs the ISP money to perform this line check, and that's why they won't do one until they have a commitment from a customer to take a plan. The initial check won't show any infrastructure problems on your line, which is why sometimes an ISP tells you that you can sign up and then later tells you it is actually not going to be possible to get an ADSL2+ service.
In these situations, you may be offered an ADSL1 or mobile broadband service instead. If this is the case, you should compare a few ADSL1 plans from other providers before agreeing to sign up to a plan.
As for the speeds, the initial check will give you an idea of the speeds you can expect, based on your distance from the telephone exchange. While distance from the exchange is an important factor in determining the line speed, it's not the only one. It won't be until you start receiving a service and can perform a speed test you will find out your actual speed. ADSL2+ speeds range from around 1.5Mbps to 24Mbps.
If you like, we can check if ADSL2+ is available in your area. Give us a call on 1300 106 571 and we can see if TPG can offer a service. If you want to check another ISP, call Club Telco on 1300 138 155 or drop Club Telco a quick email and you will receive a call back.
Hope this helps,
Sarah
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