2 Gbps | Dirt Report

NBN 2Gbps plans arrive

The new NBN plans discussed in the video provide 2,000Mbps download speeds. The two upload options are 200Mbps and 500Mbps, with the 500Mbps upload plan described as the higher-priced option.

The service used for the upgrade was supplied by Launtel. Its service model allows the connection speed to be increased or reduced, which may be useful when household requirements change. The provider also displays usage information and line-side service details.

NTD replacement and installation

The upgrade requires a technician to replace the existing NBN network termination device (NTD). The new single-port unit is considerably smaller than the older model and has protection around the fibre connection. The fibre cable still needs to be handled carefully because bending it can damage it.

The new unit uses less power than the previous NTD, which may be relevant for homes using a UPS or household battery. Because the mounting frame is different, installation can require two new holes in the wall. However, the technician can fit the new NTD into the old mount by request if avoiding new holes is important.

The single-port 2Gbps NTD replacement is free in the upgrade described. A four-port NTD is subject to different charges: up to $300 for a transfer from a single-port NTD where only one service is active, $110 for a completely new fibre installation, and no charge where multiple services are already active at the premises. These costs are the scenarios outlined in the provider’s information referenced by the video.

Hardware needed for 2Gbps networking

The NTD connects to a router, and the router must support connections faster than 1Gbps. The video recommends using suitable Cat 6 Ethernet cables, particularly for the connection between the NTD and router, while keeping the cable run short where possible.

Many newer, higher-priced routers include one or more 2.5Gbps ports, often with one designated for the WAN connection. Other models include a 10Gbps port and multiple 2.5Gbps ports, allowing more of the local network to operate above standard gigabit Ethernet.

The connected computer also needs a network interface capable of at least 2.5Gbps. This can be built into a motherboard or supplied through a USB-C-to-Ethernet adapter. The video reports no noticeable performance difference between those two wired connection types. At the time of testing, the full speeds were achieved using wired connections; wireless performance was not presented as an equivalent option.

Reported speed test results

The tested service was the 2,000Mbps download and 500Mbps upload plan. The reported download result reached approximately 1,940Mbps, while upload reached approximately 465Mbps. The provider’s line-side defaults were shown as 2,100Mbps download and 475Mbps upload, with the option to adjust those settings.

These results were close to the plan’s stated speeds, although the upload result remained below the nominal 500Mbps service rate. The extra download capacity shown in the service settings is intended to account for overprovisioning.