Why the NBN is great news for senior Aussies
Tech expert Angus Kidman explains how the National Broadband Network could be great news for Australian seniors.
The rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has been controversial, with frequent claims of delays, overspending and pork barrelling. However, if you step past the political mudslinging and design compromises, the project does offer most Australians the opportunity to experience a faster and more reliable internet connection.
The NBN is being built to replace the ageing copper telephone network. This was originally designed to deliver voice calls, not internet services. In most areas, the NBN will use a mixture of optic fibre and some copper to deliver connections into buildings. In remote regions, fixed wireless and satellite technologies will be used. More than 3 million premises are now NBN-enabled. You can find out when your address is due to be connected by checking an NBN tracker service.
You won't have any choice about which technology is rolled out at your address, and 18 months after the NBN has arrived in your area, the existing network will be switched off. That means you'll need to choose an NBN plan unless you're happy to live with nothing except a mobile phone.
Being forced to switch might seem like an inconvenience, but it's also an opportunity. Here are three reasons why the move to the NBN is good news:
You'll have a much wider choice of providers
The current broadband network design in Australia often means that you have little or no choice about which company you sign up with. Under the NBN model, a wide range of providers compete for your business. The connections they can offer to your home are identical, but you can choose based on price, availability of local service, or any other factor that's important to you. For that reason, it's worth taking the time to compare different plans when the NBN arrives in your area, rather than just sticking with your existing phone company ‑ you may well be able to score a better deal.
You'll easily be able to switch
The fact that the underlying network isn't controlled by a single provider means that it's much easier to jump ship if you're not happy with the customer service. For that reason, I'd caution against signing up for a long-term contract, as that will lock you in. Consider a 12-month contract or a month-to-month deal.
You'll have faster speeds (if you want them)
NBN connections offer a variety of speeds. Most Australians are opting for a 25/5 speed, which is faster than most existing broadband. If you only use the Internet very occasionally for email, you can settle for the "basic" 12/1 speed, which is similar to most current services. If you're addicted to streaming TV and online chats with the family, you can choose a faster 50/20 or 100/40 plan. Higher speeds cost more, but most providers will let you switch to a higher "speed tier" if you find your connection too slow.
No technology is perfect, and there will be complaints about NBN services, just as there are issues with the existing broadband network every time it rains! Nonetheless, provided you shop around carefully, the NBN presents a definite opportunity to get a better internet connection and pay less for it.
Are you excited about the roll out of the NBN, or still a little wary?
Angus Kidman is a tech expert for comparison site finder.com.au.