Choosing the right NBN modem and Wi-Fi router is one of the biggest factors affecting internet speed and reliability in Melbourne homes and small businesses.
“I upgraded my NBN plan — so why is the internet still slow or dropping out?”
Across Melbourne, we regularly see performance issues caused not by the NBN itself, but by outdated, incorrect, or poorly configured networking equipment — especially in homes and offices using ISP-supplied devices that weren’t designed for heavy loads. If you’re unsure what to buy, we can recommend and supply the right gear via our IT hardware and software sales.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to choose the best NBN modem and router for Melbourne conditions, based on your connection type, property size, and usage needs. We’ll also show how Reconnected helps clients across Melbourne and Victoria get reliable internet that actually works — with our local team based in Cranbourne.
A better modem or router helps — but placement and setup matter just as much. We can assess your setup and fix the real cause.
Why the Right NBN Modem & Router Matters in Melbourne
Melbourne’s NBN network includes a mix of older copper lines, fibre upgrades, apartments, townhouses and multi-storey offices. Cheap ISP-supplied equipment often struggles with:
- Longer copper lines in older suburbs (especially on FTTN)
- High Wi-Fi congestion in built-up areas
- Multiple devices competing for bandwidth
- Work-from-home and cloud-based workloads
Upgrading the right hardware — and setting it up properly — can dramatically improve performance without changing your NBN plan.
Step One: Know Your NBN Connection Type
Before choosing any equipment, you must know which NBN technology you’re on. In Melbourne, the most common are:
FTTN (Fibre to the Node)
Common in established Melbourne suburbs. Uses copper phone lines and requires a VDSL2-compatible NBN modem. Modem quality has a major impact on speed and stability.
FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)
Fibre runs close to the property with copper inside. Still requires a modem, and benefits from higher-quality hardware.
FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
Increasingly common in newer estates and NBN upgrades. Uses an NBN connection box — no modem required, router only.
HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)
Uses coaxial cable with an NBN connection box. Requires a router for Wi-Fi and internal networking.
You can confirm your NBN technology using the official checker on NBN Co’s website .
Choosing the Right NBN Modem (FTTN & FTTC)
If you’re on FTTN or FTTC, your modem should be:
- Fully NBN-compatible (VDSL2)
- Designed for Australian line conditions
- Actively supported with firmware updates
- Stable under heavy device usage
We frequently see Melbourne homes stuck with unstable connections simply because they’re using low-end ISP modems that can’t handle local line conditions. If you want the right modem/router recommended for your setup, our team can help via hardware supply and advice.
Choosing the Right Wi-Fi Router
Your router controls Wi-Fi speed, coverage and reliability throughout the property. For most Melbourne homes and small businesses, look for:
- Dual-band or tri-band Wi-Fi
- Strong signal range
- Wi-Fi 6 support for modern devices
- Built-in security features (and for businesses, consider a security review as part of cybersecurity services)
For business environments, business-grade routers provide better reliability for cloud apps, VoIP and remote access.
When Mesh Wi-Fi Is the Best Option
Many Melbourne homes — especially double-storey builds and larger properties — struggle with Wi-Fi dead zones. Mesh Wi-Fi systems use multiple access points to deliver consistent coverage throughout the home or office.
If you experience any of the following, mesh Wi-Fi is often the best upgrade:
- Weak Wi-Fi in bedrooms or home offices
- Dropouts when moving around the property
- Inconsistent speeds between rooms
Professional Setup Makes the Difference
Even the best modem or router will underperform if it’s poorly configured or badly placed. That’s why professional assessment and setup matters — especially when you rely on stable internet for work, cloud access, or business systems.
Our Networking & Internet Setup service covers hardware selection, configuration, optimisation and troubleshooting for Melbourne homes and businesses.
When to Call a Local Melbourne IT Expert
- Internet problems keep coming back
- Wi-Fi struggles under load
- NBN upgrades didn’t improve performance
- You rely on cloud services, EFTPOS or VoIP
Based in Cranbourne, Reconnected provides onsite and remote support across Melbourne and regional Victoria, with clear advice and no guesswork.
How Reconnected Can Help
- NBN modem and router supply (via IT hardware and software sales)
- Wi-Fi and mesh system installation
- Network optimisation and troubleshooting
- Business networking and cabling
- Ongoing IT support
We also assist with computer repairs, cloud solutions and cybersecurity when internet issues are part of a bigger IT problem.
Still having NBN or Wi-Fi problems?
If dropouts, dead zones or inconsistent speeds are still affecting your home or business, we can help with clear advice and practical fixes — from modem/router selection to mesh Wi-Fi and business-grade networking.
