How to Bypass Your Modem: A Step-by-Step Guide for Testing Your NBN Service

If you’re experiencing connectivity issues such as slow speeds, frequent dropouts, or no connection at all, the problem might be due to a faulty modem. By bypassing your modem and connecting your device directly to the NBN box, you can isolate the issue and determine whether your modem is the cause of these difficulties. This guide will walk you through the steps for various NBN service types where an NBN box is available.

Step 1: Identify Your NBN Service Type

Before starting, it’s essential to identify the type of NBN service you have. Common service types that include an NBN box (Network Termination Device or NTD) are:

• FTTP (Fibre to the Premises)
• FTTC (Fibre to the Curb)
• HFC (Hybrid Fibre Coaxial)
• Fixed Wireless

If you’re unsure, check the NBN box in your home. The labels on the box or the type of cables connected will often indicate the service type.

Step 2: Gather Your Equipment

You’ll need the following:

• Ethernet cable: This will connect your device directly to the NBN box.
• Device with an Ethernet port: This could be a laptop or a desktop computer.
• Your NBN box: Make sure it’s powered on and connected.

Step 3: Power Off Your Modem

1. Locate your modem, which is typically connected to the NBN box.
2. Unplug the modem from the power source.
3. Disconnect the Ethernet cable that connects the modem to the NBN box.

Step 4: Connect Your Device Directly to the NBN Box

1. Take the Ethernet cable you previously disconnected from the modem.
2. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the designated UNI-D port on your NBN box (usually labeled UNI-D1, UNI-D2, etc.,).
3. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable directly to your device’s Ethernet port.

Step 5: Allow Time to Establish a Connection

After connecting your device directly to the NBN box, allow up to 5 minutes for the connection to establish. This waiting period is crucial as it allows your device to communicate with the NBN network and obtain the necessary network configuration.

Step 6: Test Your Connection

Once connected, try accessing the internet by opening a web browser and visiting a website.

If You Can’t Connect Your Modem but the NBN Box Can Access the Internet:

This indicates that your NBN service is functioning correctly, and the issue may lie with your modem. You may need to contact your modem manufacturer for further troubleshooting or a replacement modem.

If You’re Experiencing Speed Issues:

Run a speed test to check your internet speed. Compare the results with your expected speeds. If the speed is significantly better when connected directly to the NBN box, your modem could be causing the slow speeds.

If You’re Experiencing Dropping Connection:

Leave the connection as it is for a few hours and observe whether the connection remains stable. If the dropping connection persists, please contact us to report the issue.

Step 7: Reconnect Your Modem

If the test shows that your modem is at fault:

1. Disconnect the Ethernet cable from your device.
2. Reconnect the modem to the NBN box using the Ethernet cable.
3. Plug the modem back into the power source and wait for it to power up.
4. Consider an alternate modem or contact the device manufacturer for further troubleshooting or a replacement.

Bypassing your modem and connecting directly to the NBN box is a straightforward way to check if your modem is causing your connectivity issues. If your internet works perfectly when connected directly, the modem is likely the problem. If not, please contact us for further assistance.