Wi-Fi Setup in a Double Brick House - Help Me

justanick on 30/05/2023 - 20:58
Last edited 30/05/2023 - 22:44 by 1 other user

Hi All,

We are going to be moving to a double brick house which was built in 1998 or 2000.
We have been with TPG NBN 50 bundle plan in an apartment complex in a long time and have been very happy with their service.
After calling them today I was told the new house has NBN but works through the telephone line.
Currently we have an NBN box from which Ethernet cable goes to the modem.

Apologies in advance as I’m not sure of all the NBN setups.

TPG is supplying us this modem “ VX220-G2V Modem” for free on a 6 month contract.

1) With NBN FTTN telephone line connection are we going to receive slower connection than the existing setup of NBN box to the modem setup?

2) Since this is a single level double brick house I assume the wifi on this modem won’t be strong enough to cover our house area of 180sqm.
What sort of budget Wi-Fi setup can I do in the house so that I won’t get any lags on the Wi-Fi connection? I have setup Wi-Fi repeaters in the past and the connections on the Wi-Fi repeaters were very slow and laggy.

3) Could you please share some deals on the extenders that I could use? Not sure if Google mesh is a good alternative.

Computing Broadband FTTN nbn Wireless Router

Comments

  • apple2016 on 30/05/2023 - 21:20
    +1

    FTTN is going to be a downgrade. Check with TPG if you can get 5G homebroad band. That might be better option if you have good 5g coverage.

    VX220-G2V Modem could be fine for 180Sqm if its centrally located. The problem come when its located on one end and then you might need an extender or mesh.

  • scrimshaw on 30/05/2023 - 21:20
    +4

    There's currently 6 different types of NBN connections / technologies. Telstra has a list of them here

    You are being supplied with what's called a "VDSL" modem router, which likely means you have either a FTTC or FTTN connection. With FTTN, the further your house is away from the node, the slower your internet speeds will be. NBN Co says customers who live within 700 metres of the node can achieve top NBN speeds. Those outside of this radius can theoretically achieve a maximum of 60Mbps.

    Mesh routers are quite different from Wifi Repeaters, they way they transfer data is much more efficient / faster. TP-Link has a family of mesh routers (Deco) but you can buy whatever brand you want, just note that the TP-Link VDSL modem that TPG supplies you must continue to be used as a modem.

    You would need to connect the mesh system to one of the LAN ports on your provided modem.

    • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 22:06

      Great post. Learnt a lot already.
      1) How do I check how far am I from the node prior to moving out? We work from home and need good connection. 5G is not stable and the speed is just not fast like the TPG NBN50 50Mbps.
      TPG guy said I should get similar speeds in my new premises. Is there a way to find out the speed as I still have an option to cancel the contract?
      2) What’s the difference between FTTC and FTTN in layman’s terms?
      3) Could you please give me some good mesh systems without breaking the bank? Apparently the telephone sock is in one side of the house far from the TV antenna plug point.
      Maybe there’s EOFY deal going on?

      • scrimshaw on 30/05/2023 - 22:21
        +2

        1. There isn't an "easy" way of figuring out what the closest node to your home is. You will need to manually find it on Google Street View on Google maps (that is what Google search results told me)

        2. Here is a graphic showing what FTTC looks like. Here is another graphic showing what FTTN looks like. As FTTN uses the most copper for it's connection, it's usually regarded as the most inferior nbn tech.

        3. Try exploring our Wireless Router tag and look for deals that match your budget. I'd wait for EOFY's to start, don't worry about buying it if you haven't moved in yet.

        • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 22:34

          Great post once again. You have educated me in an hour of my post. Thank you so much.

          I’ll definitely wait for the EOFY sales to start and will lock in which models to look out for.

          I went to the site below and then to Aussie broadband site. By plugging my address I found out I’m eligible for free FTTP but I need to upgrade to NBN 100. Aussie broadband won’t charge me but I got lost with all the disclaimers.
          TPG has NBN100 but no mention of free FTTP upgrade. Do you know why?

          https://www.whistleout.com.au/Broadband/Guides/How-do-free-F…

          • scrimshaw on 30/05/2023 - 22:39
            +1

            @justanick: There is a deal posted for the free upgrade. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/757342

            Some ISPS are participating in this scheme, some are not.

            • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 22:58

              @scrimshaw: Great. I’ll check out the thread shortly. After the previous post you posted I think I have Fibre to the Curb (FTTC). I saw a green box in front of the house maybe it’s the electrical transformer?

              • Twix on 30/05/2023 - 23:02

                @justanick: A green nbn box is FTTN. Put your location into the Telstra service qualification tool to get your FTTN speed estimate.

                TPG are pushing customers onto 5G.

                1. Give TPG the boot.
                2. Order nbn FTTN.
                3. Purchase a Telstra smart modem gen 2 for nbn FTTN. These can be picked up for $20 off Gumtree and can be used with many ISPs.
                4. Order nbn FTTP.
                5. Purchase any router or mesh setup and plug it into the nbn FTTP NTD box.
                6. Remove the Telstra smart modem gen 2.
                • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 00:02

                  @Twix: For the above points.
                  3. Can you do me a favour give me an eBay or Amazon link to purchase? Had very bad experience with gumtree.
                  4. I’m ordering FTTP through Aussie BB family $99/month will see if I get the $20 discount which you gave me.
                  A) Do you know how long they will take for the upgrade? My settlement is on 7th of July. I hope the current owners can give them access to the house. I’ll definitely need Internet in the new house.
                  B) the Aussie site is saying I might incur additional costs to setup. Also trying to sell mesh modem. Is that something I can ignore?
                  4) I’ll order in today.
                  5) So FTTP nbn box off eBay will give fast speed internet to go along the mesh setup?
                  What device configuration will Aussie give me is that for the nbn modem or mesh?
                  6) confused here. Why am I purchasing the nbn modem?

                  Please note I’m moving to new house on 7th July.

                  • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 00:21
                    +1

                    @justanick: Do a search for the Telstra smart modem gen 2 on eBay.

                    FTTP can be completed in a couple of weeks. Don't purchase the NetComm mesh from Aussie BB.

                    You are not purchasing the nbn FTTP box from eBay. Someone will come install the nbn FTTP NTD box for you. FTTP has various speed tiers going all the way to 1000Mbps download and 400Mbps upload. I suggested purchasing a cheap Telstra modem to use for FTTN while you wait for FTTP. The device config is for your router.

                    Plugin one of the mesh routers to the nbn FTTP NTD box. The Telstra modem isn't needed for FTTP.

                    • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 00:34
                      +1

                      @Twix: Okay great. I can’t thank you enough.
                      When I call and sign up with Aussie do I tell them that I need the access date from 7th of July? TPG asked me the same thing. If I say 7th July that would mean they will not start work prior to that? If I start from tomorrow they’ll start charging me early?

                      On the other point Correct me if I’m wrong - What you are saying the reason to buy Telstra smart modem gen 2 as a temporary measure until I get the FTTP NTD box from Aussie?
                      Do they charge for this device?
                      So Aussie will give me the network login password for this FTTP NTD device?

                      I just checked the promo code and it worked for 6 months $20/month off. I am so tempted to purchase this offer now online but don’t know when they will start the process of connection.

                      I hope TPG didn’t trap me. Can’t wait to call them tomorrow.

                      • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 10:31

                        @justanick: Phone Aussie BB and go by the settlement date.

                        Yeah the Telstra modem is temporary. There is no charge for the FTTP NTD and there is no login for it. Any settings you want to change are done on the router.

                • pjetson on 31/05/2023 - 08:08

                  @Twix:

                  A green nbn box is FTTN

                  Did the OP describe the box? It might be a power transformer. There's a picture of an NBN box here:

                  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Broadband_Network#/me…

                  If it is an FTTN box, the OP said it's "in front of the house", so that's just about the best case for FTTN - should be able to get a solid 100Mbs.

                  Put your location into the Telstra service qualification tool(telstra.com.au) to get your FTTN speed estimate

                  That tool seems to over-estimate, in my case anyway. It says 75-82Mbs but all I can get is around 65Mbs on a good day.

                  • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 10:49

                    @pjetson: Nah they only said a green box. I was generally speaking about the colour of the nbn node. The green box out the front maybe electrical related as they got a FTTN result of 25Mbps.

                    Yeah it's not perfect but the Telstra tool is the easiest way to check online. It uses nbn data and previous speeds at the location.

            • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 23:09

              @scrimshaw: Unfortunately TPG is not participating. I’m paying $75/month. I’ll just have to move in and find out if NBN50 is too slow. Otherwise I’ll have to breakup with TPG and move with Aussie and pay more.

              • Twix on 30/05/2023 - 23:19
                +1

                @justanick: TPG have a 30 day cancellation notice policy. Get out now and order FTTP from someone else. This Aussie BB deal is still valid even though it says expired. Superloop and Leaptel have discounted prices.

                • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 23:49

                  @Twix: Great. I’m calling TPG tomorrow and will cancel the service.
                  They have already shipped the modem I’ll ask that to be sent back. I hope they didn’t trap me into 6 months contract.

                  Do I call Aussie broadband for this work or buy this online? Their 6 month deal is $79 cheapest but after that it goes up a lot.

                  • Twix on 30/05/2023 - 23:57

                    @justanick: Phone up Aussie BB and get them to apply the promo code to your FTTP order. Check ISP prices in 6 months time.

                    • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 00:23
                      +1

                      @Twix: Thank you so much. I went to the Telstra tool and was shocked to find out I only get 25Mpbs download speed. Glad I came here.

                      Would you be able to answer my above points?

  • iamherenow on 30/05/2023 - 22:21
    +1

    Mine was very patchy through 4 brick walls, with the router at the front of the house. If the router was in the centre itwould have been ok. I ended up with ASUS mesh (wired) with one router at each end to solve the problem. Happy as I get perfect wifi front and back yards, and all through the house.

    • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 22:29

      Great. Could you please send me the link to the model and where to buy this?

      • iamherenow on 30/05/2023 - 22:41

        Any ASUS router that says mesh compatible does it. I bought off amazon. I ran a cable between them because it's supposed to be better.

        • kiitos on 31/05/2023 - 08:28

          How did you run the cable through the house? Did you need to get cabler to do it?

          • iamherenow on 01/06/2023 - 19:59

            @kiitos: easiest was was through the roof. needed to be a bit creative with it's path given the brick walls.

  • ihfree on 30/05/2023 - 22:42

    I use two Asus routers with wireless backhaul, though as mentioned above wired backhaul is a better option if you have the choice. I found the AX6000 gave decent range by itself compared to my previous AC mesh setup.

    I'd likely just run the supplied modem in bridged mode if you went with a mesh setup.

  • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 23:12

    Hmm I’m a bit confused setting up the Asus mesh.

    I’m already getting TP-Link modem/wifi from TPG. I can’t change much of the settings except the wifi password etc. I’ll plug the Asus mesh to the LAN port and I assume the other one(s) to the weaker side of the house?

    Correct me if I’m wrong?

    • ihfree on 30/05/2023 - 23:31

      You'd want to reconfigure the modem to operate in bridge mode and let the better asus router handle routing duties.

      This guide is roughly what you'd do on the TP-Link modem - https://www.tp-link.com/au/support/faq/111/

      From there, you connect the first lan port on the TP-link to the WAN port on the Asus router.

      If you do the FTTP upgrade suggested above, you'd connect the ethernet from the Fibre NTD to the WAN port on the Asus router..

  • justanick on 30/05/2023 - 23:27

    I found this in Amazon will that work well for brick wall? I’ll connect the main device from the Ethernet port of the Tp- link “VX220-G2V Modem”. After that I’ll just move the other two mesh devices to each corner of the house?
    1) The TPG TP-Link VX220-G2V Modem will still transmit wifi network. Do I turn it off and use that as modem only?

    TP-Link Deco Whole Home Mesh WiFi System– Up to 4000 Sq.ft. Coverage, WiFi Router/Extender Replacement, Gigabit Ports,Seamless Roaming, Parental Controls, Compatible with Alexa(Deco S4 3-Pack) https://amzn.asia/d/6V4bKdW

    • scrimshaw on 30/05/2023 - 23:30

      Deco s4: It's pretty old and I would recommend a router that supports Wifi 6.

      You can tell whether it's Wifi 6 or Wifi 5 by looking at the wireless communication protocol spec. If it mentions AC it's Wifi 5, if AX it's wifi 6.

      • bobwokeup on 31/05/2023 - 12:39

        I got a Wifi 6 from Superloop and the speeds are okay near the modem, but through brick walls it’s not great. Now I’m thinking I might need mesh routers or an extender?

  • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 03:34

    Found this the first one UK version but seems to have better radius.
    TP-Link Deco X60 AX5400 Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System, Up to 5,300 Sq ft Coverage, 1 GHz Quad-Core CPU, Compatible with Amazon Alexa, HomeShield Security, Pack of 2 (UK Version) https://amzn.asia/d/4irwwYV

    Or
    TP-Link Deco X20(2-pack) AX1800 Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System https://amzn.asia/d/7uwBdEx

    • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 10:51
      +1

      Never purchase a router from the UK. Purchase Australian router stock.

  • Jac33au on 31/05/2023 - 08:01
    +1

    Shop around. There are better deals than aussie bb out there for fttp right now. Tangerine has a bad reputation in this forum but for years I've had nothing but good service and speeds from them and just completed a free fttp upgrade.

    I don't care about local call centers or touchy feely stuff. Money talks.

    Just remember who ever you go with, try to get the nbn equipment installed in the best location or you'll be running cables through the house.

  • veej on 31/05/2023 - 08:17
    +1

    I'm not sure if it was mentioned before but devices like Google Nest are routers only and won't work by itself on a VDSL connection. You need to bridge it to the modem first.

    The modem needs to be VDSL compatible so it has a DSL port.

    You can buy mesh units that don't need to be bridged first. Eg https://www.jbhifi.com.au/products/tp-link-deco-ax5400-vdsl-… (sorry I'm on a phone so haven't gone bargain hunting.)

    • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 13:28

      Ya I’m looking for a device that won’t require a bridge to the modem. Any combo mesh units under $300 would be my preference. The jbhifi AX5400 seems expensive at $500. Is there other options for TPlink devices? AX20 is that good?

  • Msfrugal on 31/05/2023 - 09:49
    +2

    Hi. Joining this thread to let OP know that when NBN came my area I signed up for 50 speed. Unfortunately where I’m located they discovered I can’t get more than 25 speed. It’s fine for just ordinary emails:Netflix/browsing etc.
    had WFH housemate for few months last year but for him it was the upload speed that was really bad . 4-5 .

    They got their own place about a km away that has been upgraded to FTTP and getting good speeds. My street got the brochure Re registering for FTTP upgrade few weeks back so we will have that soon.

    glad you were informed to go to Telstra page Re plugging in adddress to see speed available.

    I’m with Telstra - have been since moved into house. The best thing about Telstra is they will give you credit for any problems- and Omg did I have problems the first year. Think I had 7 free months as I would complain. Lots of issues with communication as was overseas call centres who gave wrong information- plus technicians who didn’t fix issue.

    Whereabouts are you? If you want to private message me I have a new in box Telstra gen 2 modem and a telstra gen 2 wifi extender that I am happy to get to you. It had to upgrade to the Telstra gen 3 modem and get Telstra gen 3 wifi extenders as I have big 2 storey house and modem at one end so needed them.

    Prior I had 2 different make extenders - 1 plug into PowerPoint in kitchen (centre of house) and I upstairs. They did ok.
    We then had list of 6 wifi connections (2.4 and 5ghz) 2 bands on each router.
    With the Telstra extenders they all link and show just the 1 - your device eg ph - will link to best one as you roam the house.

    Re getting FTTP I’ve been advised the installers will not need access to the house . I would assume the current owners /tenants have the internet connected - you might be able to find out where the input for the phone line is from them?
    I think you’d have to use that current input point which would be why (again my assumption) they don’t need access to the house.

    I think Telstra work on a month to month basis now - they charge you for the modem if cancel within 24 months from memory.

    You could maybe get connected with Telstra for a month - just DONT get the modem from them (gen 3). A Gen 2 modem you will pick up easily on FACEBOOK marketplace if I can’t get it to you.

    Then if any issues you’re dealing with the company who will be able to compensate you for that. Just a thought. These days telstra customer service in Australia and the 1 person can do everything.

    I want to say thank you to everyone on this thread and the community.
    The generosity in sharing your knowledge and help has helped me many times.

    • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 11:05

      They need outside access to install the PCD box but you don't have to be there for this. You need to be home on the second appointment to give them inside access to install the FTTP NTD box.

    • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 12:25

      Wow this is really kind of you. I’m sending you my address shortly. Thank you so so much.

  • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 13:14
    +1

    I want to give a big shout out to @Twix @scrimshaw and others in the community to help me educate and getting to this stage overnight. I agree with @Msfrugal we owe a big one to this community and thank you so much for offering me your Telstra modem.

    Update:
    I have spent first part of my day talking to TPG to get rid of my contract and then Aussie BB to get connected to FTTP.

    TPG:
    After talking with 3 consultants they were not ready to let me leave their account the win back team confirmed they can escalate to NBN and get me FTTP for free and apparently I’m not on any contract with TPG even after receiving an email that I’m on a 6 month contract. I was told by 15 June they will let me know if I can get the free FTTP and I can remain on my NBN $74.99 plan. I sent them an email awaiting response to confirm.

    2) Aussie BB called me as I was fishing for info from their website last night. The consultant was trying to suggest I remain on TPG in my new address and then seek FTTP through Aussie BB after moving in. After I confirmed the speed will be horrible she quickly took my application to get the ball rolling to get FTTP organised.
    Within few hours I got an email NBN will be going to the current address between now and 5th of June. Then another email came that on 15th June between 8am - 12pm a technician will go for NBN install. I am assuming I’ll get FTTP NTD box during that time.

    1) Shall I force cancel with TPG at this stage or wait for Aussie BB to confirm FTTP has been activated?
    2) For the mesh modem router setup for a double brick single story house. Which bargain deals are to watch out for? As per @Twix it’s not wise to buy international routers.

    TP-Link Deco X20(2-pack) AX1800 Whole Home Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System https://amzn.asia/d/3Y4iNXL

    • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 13:54
      +1

      Take TPG's date with a grain of salt. My mate on TPG asked for FTTP mid 2022 and they said something similar. He swapped ISP and was connected to FTTP a week later.

      Shouldn't the FTTP install date be after the 7th July settlement and not the 5th and 15th of June?

      A Deco X20 plugs into the FTTP NTD. You can purchase more Deco's if two isn't enough.

      • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 14:09

        Thank you mate. Ya I’m wondering why they are installing FTTP that soon. But I told Aussie I’ll not need the service before 15th July as I plan to stay in my current place for another week after settlement.
        I was told they will not charge me until activation of the FTTP and only after the NBN guys go to visit the site they will know if they are able to provide FTTP as my house could have old copper infrastructure and changing them to fibre might not even be possible or I need to pay more.

        For TPG I’ll force cancel with them if I don’t hear back from them.

        If I purchase the Deco X20 plugs in Amazon is that a good deal in your experience? With this I don’t have to buy anything else for setup. Aussie configuration settings can be set easily on this?
        Lastly can the Deco plugs spit guest logon and passwords instead of joining the main SSID?

        • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 14:18

          Maybe reschedule the install date to July unless you can negotiate with the people living there for the June install date. Someone needs to be there on June 15th for the FTTP NTD install.

          Deco works well for most, is compatible with all ISPs and you can have a guest Wi-Fi network. If you want a router with more advanced networking there are more expensive options. Nah you don't have to purchase anything else.

  • Msfrugal on 31/05/2023 - 14:05

    Hi again, np Re modem (replied your pm)

    FYI anyone wanting to know if your suburb goi g to be upgraded this year here’s the list of FTTN upgrade to FTTP list of places announced 2023 :

    https://www.nbnco.com.au/residential/upgrades/more-fibre#ann…

    @Twix - thanks for the msg Re inside/outside presence required. Been googling to understand so coming to you for clarification! Currently
    NBN modem connected in same place as original phone connection. At one end of house.
    With the installation of fibre to premises questions
    1. Do they DETERMINE where that outside box goes or can I?
    2. Can I DETERMINE a NEW position for router connection for inside house or they dictate where it goes? Would be great to move it more central area.

    Many thanks. It is a bit confusing so trying to understand so get best possible position in house?

    • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 14:52
      1. The installer chooses the location of the outside box. Generally it goes near your existing Telstra box.
      2. You can move your router wherever you like. The installers don't move your router.
      • Msfrugal on 31/05/2023 - 17:35
        +1

        Thank you !

  • jugsy on 31/05/2023 - 14:08
    +1

    Putting in another vote for TP-link deco. Does what it says on the box, not overpriced (though still pricey)

    I'd recommend going in physically to good guys/JB and see if you can get a generous salesperson.

  • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 18:07

    Hi all,

    I found a deal in GG commercial for Deco 3 pack $283. Both AX20 and AX25 3 pack are $283.

    By visually looking at the box AX25 has a black top and AX20 has a white top. What’s the difference between the two and which one should I buy?

    1) https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/tp-link-deco-ax1800-whole-hom…

    2) https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/tp-link-ax1800-whole-home-mes…

    • Twix on 31/05/2023 - 20:39

      As far as I can tell the hardware is the same and the difference is in the software.

      Deco X25 only comes in a 3-pack bundle, released early 2023 and has free TP-Link HomeCare.

      Deco X20 comes in a 1-pack, 2-pack bundle and 3-pack bundle, released mid 2021 and has free TP-Link HomeCare or TP-Link HomeShield that has free and subscription options depending on if the hardware revision is V1, V2, V3 or V4. Check the box for the hardware revision.

      HomeShield differences
      HomeCare differences
      HomeCare vs HomeShield
      HomeCare vs HomeShield

      • justanick on 31/05/2023 - 23:37
        +1

        Got it. Thanks again. I have just ordered Deco X25 for $283 plus $8 shipping. Hope I got a good deal.

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