Right tech, Right plan – finding your perfect match in today’s changing environment

Navigating internet and phone connectivity, especially in regional, rural, and remote Australia, can often be both confusing and frustrating. Many people opt for familiar solutions instead of exploring new ones, overwhelmed by the plethora of options and the technical jargon involved. While connectivity gaps still exist in these areas, there are various choices available. Numerous resources can help you find the right technology, provider, and plan to suit your personal or business needs.

The sky’s the limit – an array of technologies

The variety of technologies available for both phone and internet services has expanded significantly. For example, internet options now include:

• nbn® Fixed Line
• nbn® Fixed Wireless
• nbn® Satellite (Sky muster®, Sky Muster Plus®, and Sky Muster Plus Premium®)
• WISPs – non-nbn® Fixed Wireless
• Starlink Satellite
• ADSL, non-nbn® fibre and cable
• Mobile Broadband
• Low Power Wide Area Network (mainly used in farming operations)

Phone technology is also advancing, utilising a combination of broadband and satellite to ensure consistent coverage.

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Things to consider

When choosing the right technology, provider, and plan for your property, consider the following factors:

• Location: Your location significantly influences the types of technology available.
• Backup: It’s essential to have multiple types of technology and power sources for reliability. For example, you might use mobile broadband, satellite internet, and a generator.
• Budget: Different technologies come at varying costs. Evaluate what you can afford and consider the benefits of potentially spending a bit more.
• Needs: Determine your specific needs. For instance, mobile broadband might not be suitable for running a business, while a basic plan might suffice if you only use the internet for simple tasks.
• Setup, Activation, and Support: If you prefer guided support and ongoing assistance, choose a provider that offers these services.

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For businesses, additional considerations include:

Operational Areas: Consider where your business operates and if you have remote activities requiring reliable phone and internet service.

Business Scale and Requirements: Ensure you have backup technology for emergencies and consider the security of your operations.

Alternative Internet Connections: Investigate alternative options that might suit your needs better.

Example: nbn® fixed wireless and satellite upgrades

Recent upgrades to nbn® Fixed Wireless and Satellite services provide a compelling reason to consider changing your technology type. The nbn® Fixed Wireless upgrades include increased capacity and speed improvements, making it a more reliable choice for households and businesses in regional areas. Similarly, the Sky Muster® Satellite services have been enhanced to offer greater data allowances and faster speeds with Sky Muster Plus® and Sky Muster Plus Premium®. These upgrades significantly improve the user experience, making these options worth exploring if you’re experiencing connectivity issues with your current service.

Read more: Ensuring connectivity in regions is crucial

The role of the regional tech hub

Understanding the unique challenges faced by regional and remote communities, the Regional Tech Hub offers free, independent advice on your connectivity options. Our team can provide quick consultations or comprehensive Connectivity Reports tailored to your needs and location. Contact us via:

Phone: 1300 081 029

Book a 1:1 appointment through our website