Your internet connection can be affected by several factors. If you’re experiencing connectivity issues, check that your ONT is working. If the lights on your modem aren't functioning, you need to contact your internet service provider. Additionally, if you see a red light on your modem, it's important to reach out to your provider who will assist you.
If your modem is working but you’re still experiencing issues, try our tips to help you get the most out of your fibre connection.
The distance between your modem and your devices can affect your Wi-Fi performance.
Connect to your Wi-Fi and conduct a speed test on your device from where you usually use it and then compare it to another speed test when your device is close to the Wi-Fi modem
If your home has cabling for internet access, consider moving the Wi-Fi modem to an outlet point closer to where you mostly use your devices, or in the centre of your home.
Consider purchasing either a Wi-Fi extender or an additional Wi-Fi access point. This can be positioned in the part of your home with poor Wi-Fi coverage or where additional capacity is required. If using a Wi-Fi access point, it must be connected back to your primary Wi-Fi modem via an Ethernet cable. The new access point will need to be configured with your network name and password so devices can automatically connect to the best access point.
Old devices, or some software installed on your devices, can impact on fibre broadband performance.
Turn off all devices connected to your Wi-Fi network. Source a new device (preferably less than a year old) and use this to conduct a speed test over Wi-Fi to see if the performance has improved.
Remove any unnecessary apps or software from your devices.
Consider upgrading or purchasing new devices.
If you’re using a Wi-Fi modem that was not provided by your internet service provider, it may be too old or not appropriate for use over fibre broadband.
Check that your Wi-Fi modem is of an appropriate standard. The current standard for Wi-Fi modems for use with a fibre broadband connection is 802.11ac. This is listed in the features on the Wi-Fi modem box as either “802.11ac” or “AC”. You can also check by contacting your internet service provider and asking them.
Use the Wi-Fi modem provided by your internet service provider.
Interference to a wi-fi signal can be caused by a range of factors. Devices that may cause interference include transmitting devices such as neighbouring wi-fi networks, cordless phones, baby monitors and bluetooth devices. Other electrical devices such as halogen desk lamps, dimmer switches, speakers and even electric fences can also affect your wi-fi signal. Interference such as what your home walls are made of (concrete, brick, steel framing) and other objects (fish tanks, hot water cylinders) can also affect your wi-fi signal.
Check your wi-fi signal strength and conduct a speed test while other devices are on. Then compare these to the signal strength and a speed test when all other devices are turned off and disconnected from the power.
Ensure all unnecessary electrical devices are turned off when not in use or are removed from the environment.
Reduce the number of electrical devices in your home; particularly those that are positioned near or between your wi-fi modem. Purchase a new 802.11ac standard wi-fi modem.
This can be supplied by your internet service provider, or purchased as a byo modem (if your internet service provider supports byo modems).
Want to get an accurate reading of your broadband speed? Start by visiting speedtest.net, a reliable tool for measuring your internet connection.
For the most precise results, avoid using Wi-Fi during the test—wireless signals can fluctuate due to interference, distance, and device limitations. Instead, plug your device directly into the modem using an Ethernet cable. This eliminates variables and gives a true reflection of your network’s capability.
It's also a good idea to run the test three times, ideally at different times of day. Multiple tests will give you a more balanced view of your broadband speed.