Choice of Modem and Wi-Fi Boosters for nbn HFC - TP-Link or Telstra?

virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 11:31
Last edited 19/12/2023 - 14:34 by 2 other users

Looking for a good value for money combo of modem and mesh wifi boosters for my HFC NBN. I have shortlisted these two combos:

1) https://www.amazon.com.au/TP-Link-Dual-Band-Supported-Compat… -> Modem +
https://www.amazon.com.au/TP-Link-AC1200-Whole-Wi-Fi-3-Pack/… -> Boosters

2) [Used, Unlocked] Telstra Smart Modem Gen 3 -> Modem +
[Used, Unlocked] Telstra Smart modem Wifi booster Gen 3 -> Boosters

Which one should I go for? OR do you have any better recommendations (share the links please)? My NBN is with Exetel is it matters. Thanks!

• 

  geekcohen on 19/12/2023 - 11:35

  TP Link all the way.

  • 

    virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 11:36

    Thanks. Are the above right models that you would recommend though? These are other options:

    https://www.tp-link.com/au/home-networking/dsl-modem-router/…
    +
    https://www.tp-link.com/au/home-networking/deco/deco-x20/v2%20(2-pack)/

    • 

      geekcohen on 19/12/2023 - 11:56

      WiFi 6 would future proof you, but it depends on if you can justify the cost difference. Both solutions would work fine and be good.

      • 

        virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 11:59

        Do I still need a modem if I go with Deco X20s or can I plug it directly into NBN box (HFC)?

        • 

          geekcohen on 19/12/2023 - 12:00

          @virhlpool: You still need some sort of a router within your network, so no you cannot plug it directly into the NBN box.

          • 

            virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 12:07

            @geekcohen: I see. My comment was based on this: https://www.ozbargain.com.au/comment/14739986/redir

            • 

              geekcohen on 19/12/2023 - 12:18

              +1

              @virhlpool: So they are right, if the Deco X20s have a router within the kit, then that will be fine.

              Personally, I would still add the separate Router for better visibility and network controls. But that is just me being a bit of a control freak and loving technology.

          • 

            ESEMCE on 19/12/2023 - 12:19

            @geekcohen: Pretty sure Deco X20 includes a router, they're not just APs.

            • 

              geekcohen on 19/12/2023 - 12:21

              @ESEMCE: Yeah, that is what the link seems to indicate with the diagrams.

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  scrimshaw on 19/12/2023 - 12:12

  https://www.nbnco.com.au/learn/network-technology/hybrid-fib…

  Hybrid coaxial connections do not require you to buy your own modem. You are provided one with your nbn connection

  You only have to buy a router, you don't need a VDSL modem or Modem Router combo

  • 

    virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 12:14

    Deco X20 (two pieces) seem to be a good choice then. Would this act as router, I suppose? https://www.amazon.com.au/TP-Link-AX1800-Whole-Wi-Fi-System/…

    • 

      scrimshaw on 19/12/2023 - 12:16

      +1

      Mesh routers function the same as normal routers, they just have the added capability to form a mesh network. Yes u simply connect your main Deco router to your nbn connection device (the Cable modem) with an Ethernet cable

      • 

        virhlpool on 19/12/2023 - 12:52

        Looking at the official product page, there seems to be various versions of Deco X20 (v4 being the latest): https://imgur.com/a/46jCUo8. However, when I go on to buy from Amazon/ Officeworks etc, the version isn't mentioned. How does this work?

        • 

          FoxJump on 19/12/2023 - 13:17

          @virhlpool: lucky draw

        • 

          xuqi on 19/12/2023 - 13:46

          @virhlpool: Amazon, no way of knowing. But if you're buying from OfficeWorks, check the box for the model/serial number sticker. On it, will show the device version number..

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  kfp187 on 19/12/2023 - 19:43

  -1

  Dual band mesh… might as well grab range extenders.
  And wifi 5