Why are modems and NTDs so important for nbn speed upgrades

You upgraded your internet, thinking everything would instantly speed up. But then: buffering during the Matildas' game, dropped video calls and painfully slow file uploads. What gives? Chances are your modem or NTD setup can’t keep up with your new speed tier.

In this guide, we break down why these small-but-mighty devices matter more than you think, and how Superloop can help you stay ahead of the tech curve with the right gear for fast and multitasking internet.

Faster nbn® should feel like warp speed. But if your modem’s older than Baby Yoda, your home internet’s stuck in hyperdrive traffic. Time to ditch the relic and plug into the multiverse of speed.

Here’s why checking compatibility is a must:

Not all devices are built for speed:

Older routers often max out at 100–300 Mbps, even if your plan offers more.

Look for key features:

For top-tier speeds, you’ll need a router with:

• A 2.5 Gbps WAN port

• Wi-Fi 6e or Wi-Fi 7 support

• Ethernet cables that are Cat 6 or better

Avoid the bottleneck:

An outdated device can throttle your whole household, no matter how fast your plan is.

*If you get one of Superloop's eligible nbn plans and stay connected for 36 months.

What is an NTD — and why should you care?

An NTD (Network Termination Device) might not be the swankiest-sounding thing, but it's a critical piece of your internet ecosystem. It's the small box installed in homes or businesses with FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) or HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial) connections, and it acts as the gateway between the nbn® network and your internal setup.

What does it do?

It manages the connection between your internet provider (like Superloop) and your home devices. It’s where your modem plugs in to get access to the internet. NTD works backstage. While you don’t see it, without it, the show doesn’t go on.

Who gets one?

Homes and businesses with FTTP or HFC connections will have an NTD installed by NBN Co.

Why does it matter for faster speeds?

As new multigigabit speed tiers roll out (think 500 Mbps, 1000 Mbps, 2000 Mbps), your NTD needs to be up to the task. Older models can bottleneck your connection, even if you’ve paid for a faster plan.

Superloop can help check your device and, if needed, arrange a hardware upgrade — so your internet experience is smooth sailing no matter what you’re doing.

Why might your old NTD not cut it for new speed tiers?

Speed has outgrown the hardware

Old Network Termination Devices (NTDs) were fine when all you needed was to check emails or stream in SD. But today’s internet needs — 4K Netflix marathons, Google Meets calls, Fortnite showdowns, and backing up your entire Euro summer to the cloud — are a whole different story.

Limited ports and tech

Many older NTDs (especially on FTTP and HFC setups) have Ethernet ports that top out at 1000 Mbps. If you're eyeing a 2000 Mbps Superloop plan, that’s like driving a Ferrari with bicycle tyres. Sorry to be the one to deliver bad news, but you're not going anywhere fast.

Compatibility issues

The upgraded models support faster ports (like 2.5 Gbps) and better handling for modern network traffic. They’re built to manage multiple devices streaming, syncing and gaming at once.

Upgrade made easy

Not sure what box is on your wall? Superloop can help check if your NTD is up to speed. And if not, we’ll guide you through the upgrade with minimal fuss.

Modems supporting multigigabit speed

Not all devices are built for multi-gigabit internet. Older models can create bottlenecks that slow your connection, no matter how fast your plan is.

Other factors to consider when comparing modems and speeds is that wired connections using quality cables like Cat6 enable consumers to experience the full speed of 1Gbps plans—when a device such as a laptop is plugged directly into the modem-router, speeds should be close to maximum, barring network or hardware limitations. On Wi-Fi, actual speeds are typically lower due to factors like device capabilities (newer laptops, Wi-Fi 6E smartphones perform much better than older models), physical distance from the router, interference from walls, furniture, and other electronics, as well as the number of devices sharing the network.

Wi-Fi coverage also plays a critical role—testing speeds in different locations can reveal significant drops, especially if your device is far from the router or has legacy wireless standards (e.g., an older phone or laptop). For accurate results and the best experience, always consider device compatibility, the placement of your modem-router, and overall home layout when evaluating speed performance.

Here are some popular modems, and if they’re fast enough to support the speeds you need:

In summary:

• If your plan is below or up to 1 Gbps, any device with a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port will be fine (e.g., eero 6+, NetComm).

• If your plan is 1 Gbps or higher, you must consider a router with 2.5 Gbps WAN or better (e.g., eero 7, ASUS RT-AX89X, TP-Link AX11000, NetGear RAXE500).

How Superloop’s support team helps

Expert help, without the jargon

Superloop’s support crew knows tech talk can feel like a foreign language. That’s why they keep things simple, whether you're flipping to fibre for your home, trying to understand NBN speeds, or sorting out a modem for your small business.

Help with modems, NTDs & setup

Not sure if your modem is compatible with your new nbn® speed tier? Wondering if your NTD needs an upgrade? Superloop’s support can walk you through compatibility checks, recommend hardware, and even help schedule fibre upgrades if eligible.

Easy-to-use dashboard

Superloop offers handy online tools, hardware guides and troubleshooting steps in the dashboard. You can check your speed, track your fibre upgrade status and view your plan — all without picking up the phone.

Smooth transitions

Switching plans? Moving house? Superloop’s team ensures a smooth transition with minimal downtime. From handling the nbn® paperwork to activating your service, they keep things moving, so you don’t have to chase updates.

Our modem checklist

Before you upgrade, make sure your modem/router can keep up. Here’s a simple checklist:

Check the plug-In speed (WAN port)

Look at the spot where your modem connects to the internet. It should say 1 Gbps or higher.

Planning super-fast speeds like 1000 Mbps or 2000 Mbps? Then you'll need a modem with a 2.5 Gbps or 10 Gbps port.

Wi-Fi strength matters

Is your modem using Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7? These give you faster, more reliable wireless across more devices.

Can it handle the pressure?

iPhones, consoles and smart TVs – oh my! Make sure your modem can manage several devices with minimal freezing or buffering.

Check your cables

Using Ethernet? Look at the label: Cat 6 or higher is best. Anything older (like Cat 5) could hold back your speeds.

Need help?

Not sure if your modem is compatible? Contact our support team for quick advice.

FAQ:

Is my current modem fast enough for higher nbn speeds?

If your modem supports Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 and has a 1Gbps or 2.5Gbps WAN port, it’s likely ready. Older devices may cap speeds far below your plan. Check with Superloop support or use our recommended list to confirm compatibility.

Can I use any modem for nbn?

Not all modems work with all nbn® connection types or speed tiers. It's important to check that yours supports your connection (e.g. FTTP or HFC) and the speeds you're aiming for. Superloop provides guidance for residential properties and businesses (plus free modems with some plans when you stay connected for 36 months!) to make it simple. T&Cs apply.

How do I check if my modem is nbn compatible?

You can search your modem’s model online or contact Superloop support for help. We’ll check if it supports your connection type and speed tier. For peace of mind, eligible Superloop plans include a free* modem that’s fully compatible and ready to go (*when you stay connected for 36 months. T&Cs apply).

How does home size and layout affect Wi-Fi coverage, and what should I consider when upgrading my modem?

Wi-Fi coverage and speed can be greatly affected by your home's size, wall materials, and layout. In small homes (1–2 bedrooms), a modern Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7 router positioned centrally often provides sufficient coverage and speed. For medium (3–4 bedroom) homes, or those with lots of walls or multiple floors, a mesh Wi-Fi system or a router with additional wired access points is recommended to avoid dead spots and maintain fast speeds everywhere. Large or multi-storey homes benefit most from a robust mesh Wi-Fi setup, possibly supplemented by in-wall cabling to ensure high-speed connections reach every corner—especially important as nbn speed upgrades roll out. Always choose a modem/router that matches your connection speed, and consider your home's layout for optimal placement and hardware selection to truly enjoy those gigabit speeds throughout your space.