NBN plans with 4G backup – because even the internet needs a safety net
Worried about NBN outages and being disconnected from the online world? There are 4 providers that can help you out.
Key takeaways
- If your NBN connection goes down but you still have power, the modem will switch to a 4G backup to keep you online.
- Download speeds can reach up to 25Mbps, which is suitable for browsing, social media, and HD streaming.
- Only Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and iiNet offer modems with 4G backup, which may cost you extra depending on the provider's T&Cs.
What is NBN 4G backup and how does it work?
4G backup is the spare tyre of the internet world.
It's not quite as fast as your regular connection, but you'll be glad it's there when there's an NBN outage (assuming you still have power).
Your modem with 4G backup will kick in using its 4G mobile connection to get you online until the NBN outage ends.
Which providers offer NBN plans with 4G backup?
Only 4 providers in our database offer an NBN plan with 4G backup.
These include Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and iiNet.
You will need to use their modem to access the 4G backup feature and won't be able to BYO.
How fast is NBN 4G backup?
While the regular 4G connection on your phone is capable of around 100Mbps download speeds, 4G speeds on a backup modem are capped at up to 25Mbps.
Here's a breakdown of max download and upload speeds you can get from each provider:
| Provider | Max download speed | Max upload speed |
|---|---|---|
| Telstra | 25Mbps | 5Mbps |
| Optus | 25Mbps | 2Mbps |
| Vodafone | 20Mbps | 2Mbps |
| iiNet | 12Mbps | 1Mbps |
The actual speed you get may vary depending on factors like network congestion and the weather.
Does 4G backup cost extra?
It might, depending on the provider and what caveats they've thrown in. To make it easier, we've broken down their costs and T&Cs.
Telstra modem with 4G backup
Telstra doesn't let you BYO modem but you can get a 4G-backed one from the telco giant for $0 if you stay connected for 24 months.
If you cancel your NBN plan early, all you have to do is return the modem in good working condition to avoid a non-return fee.
Optus modem with 4G backup
You can get an Optus modem for $0 if you stay connected for 36 months.
There's no lock-in contract so you can always cancel the plan at any time. However, you will need to pay off the remaining cost of the modem.
This works out to $8.50 x the number of months left.
Vodafone modem with 4G backup
You will need to stay connected for 24 months to get a Vodafone modem with 4G backup for $0.
You can cancel your plan whenever but you will need to pay off the remaining cost of the hardware if you leave before the 2-year mark.
This works out to $7.50 x the number of months left.
iiNet modem with 4G backup
Similar to Vodafone, you'll need to stay connected for 24 months to get iiNet's modem for $0.
Or pay $8 x the number of months left if you decide to leave early.
Is it worth getting a modem with 4G backup?
If you've experienced NBN outages and get strong mobile signals at your property, getting a modem with 4G backup could be handy.
However, you're limited to just four providers, and they might not always meet your budget or have the best deals.
If your mobile plan includes enough data, you could use it to hotspot during an NBN outage.
Alternatively, you could even consider signing up for a mobile broadband plan to avoid being tied down by either Telstra, Optus, Vodafone or iiNet.
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