5 Best NBN compatible modem routers
Fast internet has become today’s need, and Australia has no reason to stay behind. That’s why the Aussie government initiated and invested in the NBN project, which would take care of the Internet needs of Australians no matter in what state they are located.
NBN stands for National Broadband Network, while the NBN Co (National Broadband Network Corporation) is responsible for dispensing fast and reliable internet service to your ISP.
The NBN Co aims to provide faster internet to consumers by using several technologies like FTTP (Fibre to the premises), FTTN (Fibre to the node), FTTB (Fibre to the basement/building), FTTC (Fibre to the curb), FTTDP (Fibre to the distribution point), HEC cable and satellite plus wireless technology.
Australians can shift to NBN as soon as the connection becomes available in their area. The internet service provider will get informed by NBN Co, who would move to the NBN and proceed to provide the users with facilities of NBN internet service.
For shifting to the NBN service, your modem plus router should be compatible with its fast capabilities and speed. Your ISP will help you identify if your existing equipment will be compatible or if you would need to buy a new modem plus router that can process the speed. To find out more about shifting to the NBN service, click here.
Top 5 NBN compatible modem routers:
The modem and routers no longer come separately as they did a few decades ago. You can now find both technologies working together in the same device, i.e. a modem that receives the signal from your ISP and the router that dispenses it through a wireless connection or Ethernet cable.
We have shortlisted for you the top 5 NBN compatible modem routers that will handle any speed level supplied by the broadband network.
1- TP-Link Archer VR2800
Main Features:
- Availability of VPN
- 4X4 MU-MIMO
- Support 3G/LTE modems
- Twin 3.0 USB ports
- Supports failover configuration
Price: $350
Review:
TP-link Archer VR2800 is an ideal router for users who want limited features that will be in use most of the time, unlike specs that would be useless. With the 4×4 MU-MIMO, you’ll benefit from a strong wireless connection that’ll allow heavy streaming and downloading of video playback.
There are two USB twin ports. You could use one for the USB storage while the other could support 3G/LTE modems. The modem can be configured as a failover, meaning you can access the internet in case of an outage or get load balancing with DSL services for the same purpose.
Moreover, you’ll get VPN support and 3G. You can use the mobile app to configure this device and set up the internet.
2- D-Link Cobra AC5300 DSL-5300
Main Features:
- Unique design
- Two 4X4 MU-MIMO (AC networks)
- Quad-core 1.8GHz processor
- Vpn support
- Parental controls
- Easy to access and setup with mobile apps
Price: $650
Review:
A little on the expensive side, D-link Cobra’s successful launch of a modem inside a router makes it a desirable device for all internet users who want to acquire strong signals all around the house.
Its unique design with eight antennas makes it stand out. And while it may not easily blend in with the rest of your interior, you won’t have much to worry about the internet access with the two independent 4X4 MU-MIMO networks, each distributing 2137 Mbps speed. This means you get powerful wireless internet access for streaming, downloading, and causal internet surfing.
You may also get the VPN support and parental control feature. Despite its sturdy design and firmware, it doesn’t support many features you’ll find in some of the other routers. However, it is still the top choice for wireless internet use.
3- ASUS DSL-AC68U AC1900 Dual-Band ADSL/VDSL Gigabit Wi-Fi modem router
Main Features:
- Supports VPN
- 1,900 Mbps speed
- USB LTE modem support for WAN
- ASUS’ AiCloud service
- USB port
Price: $300
Review:
The Asus DSL-AC68U comes at a reasonable price with easy-to-use features. The technology employed in this product’s firmware is based on OpenWRT, an open-source protocol that makes it one of the best routers in the market.
Its capability to process 1,900Mbps speed allows gamers and streamers to enjoy entertainment at 4K. The mobile app lets you configure all the settings pretty easily. You get convenient out-of-the-box access to VPN services.
You’ll also get the load balancing feature and parental controls. Overall, Asus DSL-AC68U is a good deal for the money.
4- AVM Fritz!Box 7490
Main Features:
- VoIP service
- PTSN failover port
- Port for cordless phone syncing
- VPN support
- Cloud-based contact lists
- Complete system for telephony
Price: $250
Review:
This German router won’t disappoint because it provides good value for the money. The integration of analog ports for syncing cordless phones, sending Voice mails by using VoIP service, automated wake-up alarms, and many other advanced level features come with this router.
Also, you can connect it to the NBN right out of the box. You also get a PTSN port that provides a failover feature to use during outages. Overall, it has an attractive design with durable firmware. If you value the features like VoIP, voice mailboxes, and Dect base station incorporation that aren’t available in the latest routers, this is your call.
5- Netgear Nighthawk D8500 tri-band Wi-Fi VDSL/ADSL modem router
Main Features:
- Tri-band 4X4 MU-MIMO
- Eight ports
- Six Ethernet LAN ports
- 4GHz Dual-Core processor
- 0 and 3.0 USB ports
- Parental controls
Price: Around $600
Review:
Netgear D8500 is another excellent router with an integrated modem that provides strong wifi signals around the home with the tri-band 4X4 MU-MIMO. Also, the four external and four internal antennas contribute to the enhanced wireless connection.
You also get ready to go WAN port and six ethernet ports for enhanced connectivity with multiple devices. So, this model is perfect for heavy gaming, streaming shows, and downloading movies.
More features that support VPNs, parental controls, USB storage, and router management with a bunch of PC and media tools make it an ideal choice for setting up your home/office. You can use the mobile app to configure the advanced settings.
Final Thoughts:
Without a stable internet connection, we cannot expect to manage work, and that’s why NBN compatible router is a number one requirement to get a suitable plan for faster internet connection. Besides our top 5, you can look into other options if you don’t find the perfect model here for you. However, make sure whatever brand or model you invest in supports NBN and gives a smooth service.