- Do I need an NBN modem or a router?
- When can I use my own NBN modem with a new internet plan?
- When can't I use my own NBN modem with a new internet plan?
- Is Belong's NBN modem unlocked?
- Is Telstra's NBN modem unlocked?
- Is Optus' NBN modem unlocked?
- Is Vodafone's NBN modem unlocked?
- Is TPG's NBN modem unlocked?
You probably don't need a new modem or router (or modem router) when changing internet plans, but it's not always black and white. It mostly depends on the internet connection technology you have.
But to muddy the waters, some NBN providers, like Telstra, insist you buy their NBN modem to ensure they can provide special features, troubleshoot, or conduct relevant testing. You've still got the choice to use your own, but this can mean missing out on certain benefits.
Keep reading our guide for specifics based on the top NBN plan providers and basic troubleshooting tips.
Do I need a modem or a router?
There's a difference between a modem and a router. A modem is the thing that connects you to the internet. A router is what creates your home network (including your WiFi), to which all your devices connect.
To over-simplify, your connection goes: device → router → modem → internet.
Usually, your modem and router are built into the same device – called a 'modem router' (or sometimes 'WiFi modem'). You can get stand-alone routers, or even use an NBN modem router as a standalone router by disabling its modem functionality (configuring a modem is usually easy).
Even if you got it on a previous plan, you can always take your router to a new internet provider or plan. You can usually take your modem, but not always. The modem, assuming you need one, must be compatible with your connection technology.
Here's a quick look at which NBN connection technologies require you to provide your own NBN modem, router or both.
NBN technology | Modem required | Router required |
---|---|---|
Fibre to the Node (FTTN) | ||
Fibre to the Building (FTTB) | ||
Fibre to the Curb (FTTC) | ||
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) | ||
Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) | ||
Fixed Wireless (FW) | ||
Sky Muster Satellite |
When can I use my own NBN modem with a new internet plan?
These are the main situations where you should be able to continue using your NBN modem with a new internet plan:
- If you're changing NBN plans at the same address, and already have a working NBN modem
- If you've moved to a new address where the connection technology is compatible with your current modem
- If you move to an address with an NBN technology that doesn't need a modem, you can still use a modem router as a standalone router
- If you have an unlocked pocket WiFi, WiFi dongle, or portable WiFi hotspot and you're putting in a data-only SIM from a new provider
These plans all let you bring your own NBN modem:
When can't I use my own NBN modem with a new internet plan?

These are the main situations where you might not be able to use your modem with a new internet plan:
- If you're switching from an NBN connection to home wireless, such as 4G Home Internet or 5G Home Internet. But Home Wireless plans come with a modem router.
- If you're switching from an NBN connection to a private fibre network (particularly from an HFC or FTTP connection) or vice versa
- If you're moving address and your new property has a different NBN connection type.
- If your modem is locked to your NBN provider, you may not be able to use your modem with a new provider. The vast majority of NBN modems aren't locked. If you're concerned yours might be, talk to your provider before switching.
- If your new provider offers certain features that are only available through its own modems (such as 4G backup)
These NBN plans can be bundled with a modem:
The plans above display the minimum total cost for the first month, where additional fees (such as for an NBN modem) apply.
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Is Belong's NBN modem unlocked?
Yes, Belong's modems are unlocked, so they can be reconfigured to work with other providers if you choose to leave.
Is Telstra's NBN modem unlocked?
Telstra NBN modems are not locked, so you can use it with other providers. However, it may take some configuring and it may not work with all NBN providers. Its 4G backup feature is only for use while you're on a Telstra NBN plan.
Is Optus' NBN modem unlocked?
Optus' modem is not technically locked when it comes to NBN, but there are specific protocols that can't be reconfigured by an end-user. This means the Optus NBN modem might not work with all other NBN providers.
In addition, the Optus NBN modem can't be used for phone calls with other NBN providers and 4G backup will not work if you leave Optus.
Is Vodafone's NBN modem unlocked?
Vodafone's NBN modem is completely unlocked and can be used with any other NBN provider, given they operate on the same NBN connection type. 4G backup service is only available when customers use its WiFi Hub with a Vodafone SIM on its network.
Is TPG's NBN modem unlocked?
If you're hoping to use your TPG modem with a different provider, good news – you can! Some features may not be available, however, such as VoIP.
These are currently the cheapest NBN 50 plans in our database:
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