• Starting the school year? Check your internet.

    Books and stationery? Check. School bag, lunchbox, and water bottle? Check. Recently reviewed your internet connection and provider? This should be at the top of your back-to-school checklist. A reliable internet connection is no longer a nice-to-have for education—it’s essential. It can also improve your general home internet usage and help you manage your budget more effectively.

    Why should I review my internet options and setup?

    Internet technologies, the equipment required, and plans are constantly evolving. Here are some key reasons to review your internet setup before the school year begins:

    Changing technologies:

    Internet services at your address may have improved. Every property in Australia is mapped to a specific type of nbn® fixed service – Satellite, Fixed Wireless, or Fixed Line (fibre). Alternatives like independent Fixed Wireless providers (WISPs) or Starlink may also be available. With continuous rollouts of upgrades to technology, you may be eligible for a service type you previously didn’t have access to.

    Backup options:

    It’s preferable to have a reliable backup solution if possible in case your main connection goes down, ensuring minimal disruption to online learning or work. A USP (Uninterrupted Power Supply) is also a good idea. A UPS is a device that provides backup power during outages, protects against power surges, and gives you enough time to save your work, prevent data loss, and safely shut down your devices without interruption.

    Updated plans:

    Retail Service Providers (RSPs) frequently adjust their plans. Check for new data limits, speed options, or pricing updates. A new plan might suit your household’s current needs better. There might even be new providers servicing your area.

    Changing household needs:

    Household demands may increase or decrease over time. More devices, heavier workloads, or school holidays might require higher data limits or faster speeds.

    Improved equipment:

    New technology, such as Wi-Fi extenders or updated routers, can significantly enhance connectivity and reliability. Upgrading your setup could make online classes and video calls seamless.

    Cost-saving resources:

    Look into programs like the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) or free Microsoft Office subscriptions to support your students and your budget. There is also a free Canva subscription for students and teachers.

    Without reviewing these factors, you might be struggling unnecessarily.

    What do I need to do?

    The Regional Tech Hub’s education resource hub provides simple steps to ensure your internet is ready for the school year, with information on all the above points. Key actions include:

    • identifying your connectivity options.
    • accessing free resources for education.
    • ensuring you have the right equipment to enhance your connection.

    I’m still confused—where can I find help?

    If you’re unsure about your options, start by talking to your Retail Service Provider (RSP). They can help resolve immediate concerns and confirm if you’re on the right plan with them.

    For further assistance, the Regional Tech Hub offers personalised support. Contact us for help finding the best solution for your needs. You can:

    • call us directly or book a time for us to call you via our contact page; or
    • request a free and independent connectivity report, outlining all the options available for your property.

    Start the school year with confidence by ensuring your internet is up to the task. A little preparation now can make a big difference for your family’s education and connectivity needs.