Cable Internet

If you are thinking about switching to cable internet, fibre optic internet, or any other nbn® connection, you may be confused about what is available to you and how each option differs. We know that getting the right internet plan can be difficult, so let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

While urban and metro areas are usually the first to benefit from the latest internet infrastructure developments, the countryside has unfortunately often been left behind. But that’s all changing thanks to nbn® Australia and our team here at Skymesh.

Skymesh is the leading specialised regional internet provider of the nbn® network that helps people in regional Australia get the high-speed internet connection they need. We offer a range of award-winning nbn® plans, including wired and wireless connectivity services.

If you’ve been researching cable internet in an attempt to find the best nbn® plan for your needs, read on to learn more.

What is the difference between cable and fibre internet?

Cable and fibre internet are two different types of broadband technologies that are available in Australia. The main difference between them lies in the way they transmit data.

Cable internet, also known as Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC), uses existing TV cable networks to deliver high-speed broadband connectivity to households. From its name, it is a mix of fibre optic and coaxial cables that transmit data over the network. The fibre optic cables are used to connect to the exchange, while the coaxial cables are used to connect to households.

Fibre internet, on the other hand, uses fibre optic cables to transmit data over the network. These cables are made of very thin glass strands that use light to transmit data, which means they can deliver broadband faster than traditional copper and coaxial cables, depending on the distance from the node and the quality of the existing copper line.

These service types include Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), Fibre to the Building (FTTB), Fibre to the Node (FTTN), and Fibre to the Curb (FTTC). Some Fixed Line connections may make use of copper wire already in place to form the last part of an nbn® connection or use hybrid connections, depending on the condition of the copper network going into the premises. This can affect the speed of the service.

Another key difference between cable and fibre internet in Australia is availability. While cable internet is more likely to be available in urban areas, it is not available in regional areas since, as previously mentioned, it is dependent on existing TV cable infrastructure.

On the other hand, fibre internet is being rolled out across the country and is available even in regional hubs. To find out if you can get it, you can check your address on our homepage.

How much does cable internet cost monthly?

The price of a cable internet or HFC plan is primarily determined by the speed tier that you choose to subscribe to.

One of the most affordable options is the nbn® 25 tier, which provides typical evening download speeds of up to 25 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 4 Mbps. This basic package should be enough if you only need internet access to send emails and browse the web.

Another choice is the nbn® 50 tier, which provides typical evening download speeds of up to 49 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 16 Mbps. With this plan, three to four people can simultaneously update software, stream videos in HD, and use social media without any noticeable lag.

For an even faster connection, a good option is the nbn® 100 tier. It has typical evening speeds of up to 96 Mbps download and up to 16 Mbps upload between 7.00 p.m. and 11.00 p.m. It’s best for households with four or more users who play online gaming, stream videos in ultra high-definition, and download large files.

Some plans come with a monthly data allowance. If you exceed this limit, your internet speed may be affected to ensure other users can maintain their bandwidth. If your house has more users connected to the WiFi setup, we recommend upgrading your plan to maintain optimal performance and prevent slowdowns caused by congestion.

Is nbn® a good alternative to using cable internet?

They are not mutually exclusive, since the nbn® does offer HFC connection to some areas in Australia. However, the network designates specific connection types for different addresses based on factors like proximity to infrastructure nodes and population density.

HFC isn’t available in Australia’s more remote regions because of the lack of an adequate pre-existing coaxial cable network and the impracticality of setting up new ones. Nevertheless, the nbn® Fixed Line rollout in regional areas offers FTTN, FTTC, FTTB, and FTTP connectivity options.

In terms of wireless options, nbn® Fixed Wireless is a popular connection type to cover regional areas that lack proper infrastructure or are too widely dispersed for fibre optic cables to be established. Moreover, for those residing in off-the-grid locations far from the nbn’s service towers, Sky Muster® and Sky Muster® Plus plans are satellite services that are used to deliver high-speed internet across vast distances.

When you sign up for an nbn® plan with Skymesh, you may enjoy free standard installations.*

We have over twenty years of experience helping regional Aussies get access to fast, reliable internet for their homes and businesses. With our award-winning plans, you can be confident that you’re getting value for your money.

To find out which nbn® technology is available at your premises, you don’t have to look for a separate internet availability checker; just use the address checker on our website instead. You can also speak to one of our agents for assistance if your address isn’t listed.

*Free standard installations do not include imposed nbn® charges.