Step-by-Step Guide: How to Switch NBN Providers Without Disruption

Switching NBN providers in Australia is easier than ever and can lead to faster speeds, better reliability, and cost savings. Here’s a quick summary of how to switch without interruptions:

• Check your current contract: Look for exit fees, equipment return policies, and other charges.
• Compare NBN plans: Focus on speed, data limits, contract terms, and extras.
• Choose the right plan: Match your household size and internet needs to the appropriate speed tier.
• Plan your switch date: Align with your billing cycle and allow for service overlap.
• Sign up with a new provider: Provide your address, ID, payment details, and connection type.
• Cancel your old service: Confirm cancellation and equipment return requirements.
• Stay connected: Keep both services active temporarily or use a backup like a mobile hotspot.
• Set up new equipment: Ensure compatibility and follow setup instructions for your NBN type.
• Test your connection: Run speed tests and troubleshoot any issues.
• Review your first bill: Check for accuracy in charges and terms.

Switching can save Australians an average of $200 per year, with 98% of connections completed on time. Ready to upgrade your internet? Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition.

The Simple Steps to Move to a New NBN Provider

Step 1: Check Before You Switch

Make your NBN transition hassle-free by reviewing essential details and avoiding surprise costs.

Review Your Contract Terms

Start by examining your current NBN contract. Look at your most recent bill to find the contract end date. If you’re still under contract, calculate any exit fees. For instance, if you have six months left on a $60 monthly plan, you could face a $360 exit fee .

Be aware of other possible charges:

• Fees for provider-supplied modems
• Relocation fees (ranging from $30 to $100)
• New development fees (around $300 for first-time NBN connections)
• Installation costs (between $100 and $300, depending on what’s needed)

Compare NBN Plans

Take time to compare available NBN plans. Focus on:

• Evening speeds (these can vary significantly between providers)
• Data limits (though most plans now offer unlimited data)
• Contract length
• Extras like phone call inclusions

Look into recent provider performance for insights. For example, Tangerine has been awarded WhistleOut‘s Internet Provider of the Year for three years straight, while SkyMesh has led the Best Satellite NBN Provider category for six years .

Choose the Right Plan

Select a plan that fits your household’s internet needs. Here’s a guide to help:

"If you’re looking to get the best price on a NBN plan possible, your best option is swapping plans every six months." – Alex Choros, Managing Editor WhistleOut

Plan Your Switch Date

Timing your switch is key:

• Align it with the end of your current billing cycle
• Allow time for new equipment to arrive and be set up
• Avoid peak installation periods
• Consider a short service overlap to avoid downtime

Australians save an average of $200 per year by switching telco services . Once you’ve checked everything, you’re ready to move forward with your switch.

Step 2: Start the Switch Process

You’ve picked your new NBN provider – great! Now it’s time to make the switch. Here’s how to get started.

Sign Up With Your New Provider

Reach out to your chosen provider to begin the signup process. You’ll likely need to provide the following:

Most providers allow online signup, though some might require a phone call. Keep your latest NBN bill handy – it usually contains technical details about your current setup. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll need to coordinate the timing of the service switch.

Set Your Connection Date

Timing is everything when transitioning services. While the actual switch takes less than an hour, planning ahead can help you avoid disruptions. Here’s how to ensure a smooth process:

• Schedule your new connection for the day before your current service ends.
• Allow time for any equipment deliveries.
• Avoid scheduling on weekends or public holidays.
• Request a morning activation so there’s time to resolve any issues during the day.

"You just sign up with the new provider and your service switches over. It usually takes less than an hour." – nicktork, OzBargain Forums User

Once your new connection is confirmed, it’s time to cancel your old service.

Cancel Your Old Service

After ensuring your new service is up and running, take care of canceling your existing plan. While some providers handle this for you, it’s always good to double-check. Here’s what to do:

1. Contact Your Current Provider

Call your provider’s retention department. Be prepared – they might try to keep you with special offers. Have your account details ready, and make sure to note:

• The name of the representative you speak with.
• Your cancellation confirmation number.
• Any final charges or credits.

2. Confirm Equipment Return

Ask about the following:

• Deadlines for returning equipment.
• Whether shipping materials are provided.
• Return postage costs or drop-off locations.

"Calling to cancel your internet service can be incredibly stressful and confusing. If you pick up the phone unprepared, you may find you’ve been talked into extending service for another year." – David Anders, Former Senior Writer

Pro tip: If possible, return your equipment in-store and get a receipt as proof. It’s a simple way to avoid any disputes later.

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Step 3: Keep Your Internet Working

Make sure you stay connected during the transition with these practical tips.

Keep Both Services Active

It might feel unnecessary to pay for two services at once, but keeping both your old and new providers running ensures you won’t lose internet access while testing your new connection .

Set Up Backup Internet

In addition to overlapping services, having a backup connection can be a lifesaver.

Here are some backup options to consider:

For business users, RAPIDlink offers high-performance 4G LTE routers with 24/7 remote management, perfect for professional setups .

Save Important Files

Before switching, make sure to download any critical files to avoid disruptions during a brief outage. This might include:

• Work documents
• Key email attachments
• Regularly backed-up files
• Frequently used cloud documents

Also, check how much mobile hotspot data your plan allows, so you’re prepared if you need it during the transition.

Step 4: Complete the Switch

Once you’ve started the switch to your new provider, the next steps involve setting up the new equipment and confirming that your connection is working properly.

Set Up New Equipment

Your NBN setup will depend on your connection type. Here’s how to get started:

• Check Equipment Compatibility
  Make sure your modem is ready for NBN and matches your connection type. If you’re using your own modem, confirm it’s compatible with your NBN plan and not locked to another provider .
• Connect the Hardware
  The way you connect your equipment depends on your NBN type. Use the table below for guidance:

After connecting, power on your modem and wait 5–10 minutes for the indicator lights to turn green .

Check Your Connection

Once your equipment is set up, test your connection. For the most accurate results, use an Ethernet cable to connect your device directly to the modem. Run speed tests at various times throughout the day. Your speeds should typically reach at least 80% of your plan’s advertised rate when using a wired connection .

Fix Common Problems

If you run into issues, try these quick fixes:

For FTTN/FTTB connections, ensure you are using a VDSL2-compatible modem to avoid activation problems .

Step 5: Follow Up

After switching, take these steps to ensure everything runs smoothly and you’re getting the service you signed up for.

Review Your First Bill

Within the first month, carefully go through your initial bill and check for these key details:

• Plan charges: Make sure they match the agreed-upon rate.
• Installation fees: Confirm any setup costs are accurate.
• Pro-rata charges: Look out for partial-month billing adjustments.
• Contract terms: Double-check the minimum term and any associated fees.

If something doesn’t look right, get in touch with your provider’s billing department immediately.

Test Your Internet Speed

Keep an eye on your connection by logging speed test results, including time, download/upload speeds, and ping. Use a wired connection for testing and compare the results to your plan’s promised speeds. Save these records – they’ll be helpful if you run into service problems later.

Reconnect Your Devices

Once you’re happy with the speed test results, start reconnecting your devices. Begin with essential items like work computers and phones, then move on to entertainment systems (TVs, gaming consoles), smart home devices (cameras, thermostats), and other gadgets. Update your WiFi passwords and remove any old network connections. To take it a step further, work on improving your WiFi coverage.

Maximize WiFi Coverage

For better WiFi performance, place your router in a central, elevated spot. Avoid areas near walls, metal objects, or electronics that could interfere with the signal. If you live in a larger home, consider these tips:

• Use a WiFi 6 router or a mesh network system.
• Switch to less crowded channels.
• Opt for the 5GHz band when available.
• Enable WPA3 encryption if your devices support it.

If you’re still experiencing signal issues, document them before reaching out to technical support.

Wrapping Up

By following the steps outlined earlier, you’re well-prepared to switch your NBN provider in Australia. The process is straightforward, and with careful planning, you can avoid disruptions to your internet service.

Here’s a quick recap of the key steps:

• Check your current contract terms to avoid unexpected fees .
• Prepare your equipment to ensure compatibility .
• Allow for some service overlap to maintain connectivity during the switch .
• Coordinate with both providers to ensure a smooth transition.

If you’re a business user with equipment like EFTPOS machines or security systems, make sure to account for these during the switch. Remember, you have up to 18 months from your NBN connection date to make the change .

Need more help? Check out the Oz Broadband Review Blog at https://ozbroadbandreview.com for tips and updates. You can also reach out to your new provider’s support team for assistance. Many Australian telecom providers now offer simplified processes to make switching easier .

Related Blog Posts

• The ultimate Australian NBN FAQ
• How to change NBN plans
• What to do if my NBN stops working
• 5 things to consider when choosing a NBN plan