- How to take full advantage of 5G WiFi connectivity
- What are the Telstra 5G Modems?
- What are the NBN 5G Modems?
Planning to switch to 5G? Then make sure your modem is 5G compatible.
Unlike 4G modems, 5G modems are devices that use massive MIMO, or multiple input and multiple output antennas. These antennas are very large in numbers in terms of elements and connections. Such features make it possible to receive more data even when several users are simultaneously connected to the network. No need to worry about latency while maintaining a high throughput.
With the growing demand for 5G, especially with new devices already 5G capable, it is not surprising to see more internet users jumping into a 5G subscription from their ISP providers. So if you want to take full advantage of 5G WiFi connectivity, an upgrade in your modem is necessary.
5G Modems Available in Australia
Telstra 5G Modems
- Telstra 5G Wi-Fi Pro
If you intend to use Telstra’s upcoming and full-featured Triple Play Service which will include NBN, Foxtel, and Mobile services, then you would need to get their latest Telstra Wi-Fi Pro. Aside from being a powerful router that can support all your devices in your home or office, it is also one of the first modems in Australia that is compatible with Telstra’s upcoming and full-featured Triple Play Service.
The Wi-Fi Pro has a Cat 16 modem which can support speeds of up to one gigabit per second. Not only that, it comes with a pre-installed Telstra Smart Modem Gen two which provides you with an automatic backup connection and the ability to monitor your data usage.
- Netgear Nighthawk M5
There is also the option for you to purchase the Netgear Nighthawk M50, a modem that has been specifically designed for gamers and heavy internet users. This modem is equipped with a Quad-Stream Wave-Maxx which allows you to achieve speeds of up to five hundred Mbps on the download and two hundred Mbps on the upload. It also comes with a built-in VPN server and four gigabit ethernet ports. Other features include MU-MIMO, Beamforming+, and a two-year warranty.
- Telstra 5G Home Modem
Just recently, Telstra has also announced their new Telstra Home Modem which is a modem that has been designed for use with the Telstra Smart Home service. The modem is a Wi-Fi only device and does not come with an ethernet port. To foster a faster local network speed, this modem comes with inbuilt Telstra Smart Wi-Fi which is a technology that allows you to create a mesh network.
The modem is also controllable through the Telstra Smart Home App and can be used as a single point of control for all your smart home devices. The best part is that it comes with no lock-in contract and you have the option to purchase it outright or rent it.
Other 5G Modems
- Nokia FastMile 5G Gateway
One of the most popular and affordable modems that is available in the market and is also compatible with the new Telstra network is the Nokia FastMile Gateway. This modem is a small, lightweight, and portable device that can be used for both home and office use.
It supports speeds of up to five hundred Mbps on the download and one hundred Mbps on the upload. Aside from that, it also comes with a battery that can last up to six hours. This modem is perfect for people who are always on the go and need a quick and easy way to connect to the internet. Even if you opt to subscribe to an Optus or Vodafone 5G plan, there is a great chance that the modem you will be using is the Nokia FastMile Gateway.
NBN 5G Modems
If you are already an NBN customer and are looking to upgrade your modem to a device that is compatible with the new Telstra network, then you have the option of purchasing one of NBN’s own modems. The two modems that are currently available from NBN are the Netgear Nighthawk M7300 and the Huawei HG659. Both of these modems are capable of supporting speeds of up to one gigabit per second and come with a pre-installed NBN SIM card. They also come with a two-year warranty and the option to purchase them outright or rent them.
- Netgear Nighthawk M7300
The Netgear Nighthawk M7300 features a Cat 16 modem which can support speeds of up to one gigabit per second. It also comes with a built-in VPN server and four gigabit ethernet ports. Other features include MU-MIMO, Beamforming+, and a two-year warranty.
- Huawei HG659
The Huawei HG659 is a VDSL modem that is compatible with the NBN and Telstra’s new network. It comes with a built-in battery that can last up to six hours and supports speeds of up to two hundred Mbps on the download and one hundred Mbps on the upload. Aside from that, it also has a Wi-Fi 802.11ac antenna which allows you to get a better Wi-Fi signal in your home.
What If I Do Not Have a 5G modem?
Although there is a limited number of 5G WiFi modems available in the Australian market, you can always use your 5G capable smartphone as a portable hotspot. However, doing this may take a toll on your phone’s battery life. If tethering is your only option, remember to connect your phone to a charger. Your monthly data allowance is another thing to keep in mind if you plan to connect via mobile 5G broadband.
Although 5G coverage is available in most parts of Australia, there are still some locations that don’t have access to it. If your area does not have 5G coverage, it would not be economical to invest in a 5G modem/router just yet.
But if 5G is an option in your area, especially if fixed-line internet is not available, you can find internet plans that offer great deals on wireless plans. To find the best value plan, look for internet providers who already offer the 5G WiFi modem for free in case you don’t have one. But do read the fine print as some ISPs may have included the modem for free during setup but they may require you to stick to their service for a certain amount of time. This is something to consider if you’re planning to switch providers in the long run.
Need help with finding the best wireless internet plan in your area? We’re here to help! Call us at Compare Broadband and our friendly experts are on the line to answer your questions.
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