What is gigabit internet – and do you need it?

If you're in pursuit of swift connectivity, you may be contemplating the merits of gigabit internet. But is it everything it claims to be?

Here’s what you need to know about Australia’s fastest internet – and how to connect to it today. 

Understanding gigabit internet

In the realm of digital data, “bits” are the fundamental unit of measurement. A megabit comprises a million bits, and internet speed is typically gauged in bits per second, or more commonly, megabits per second (Mbps). This metric signifies how much data can traverse a network within a single second. Notably, a gigabit equals 1,000 megabits, hence the alternative name for the speed tier: 1000 Mbps.

In essence, the greater the number of megabits or gigabits per second your internet connection can accommodate, the greater your experience will be when streaming videos or participating in online gaming, devoid of lag or disruptions.

Who offers gigabit internet in Australia

The first gigabit internet plans rolled out in Australia on May 29, 2020. Today, most providers offer gigabit internet – but only to users on fibre to the premises (FTTP) or hybrid fibre coaxial (HFC) connections.

A standard gigabit internet plan usually ranges from $100 to $190 per month, though you can keep an eye out for sales and special offers. 

How to connect to gigabit internet

If you don’t already have FTTP or HFC connected at your address, there are a few simple steps to follow. First, check NBN Co’s address lookup to find out whether your premises can get the right connection type to get gigabit internet. 

NBN Co. is on track to enable up to 10 million premises, or up to 90% of homes and businesses in Australia, to access faster internet through FTTP – so you’re probably in luck.

Then you just need to place an order for one of the three highest speed tiers – which includes 100 Mbps and 250 Mbps as well as 1000 Mbps – with your provider. This will trigger an upgrade with NBN Co. 

In some cases, you may need an nbn® technician to visit your premises and install the necessary equipment. This can include replacing your existing nbn® connection box with a new FTTP box, installing new cabling and connecting your devices to the new network.

Once that’s done, you can get gigabit internet at your address and make the most of this high-speed plan.

Why some gigabit plans fall short of 1000 Mbps

On closer examination, it becomes evident that many gigabit plans don’t quite reach the 1,000 Mbps mark. So what gives?

It’s complex, but it boils down to the fact that networking protocols and equipment consume a portion of the bandwidth, which is often referred to as networking overhead. 

Additionally, the specific equipment, such as modems or routers, that connects the internet to your devices can impact the speed. 

In the ACCC's Broadband Performance Report, the fastest speed observed on these plans was around 940Mbps. In the same report, the hourly average download speeds ranged from 654Mbps to 828Mbps across the day.

This is why providers frequently indicate speeds as "up to" a particular threshold (in this case 1000 Mbps). The reality is that, for most users, the distinction between one gig and 940 Mbps will be imperceptible.

Is gigabit internet worth the investment?

For most users and households, gigabit internet is more than is strictly necessary. However, certain situations mean that 1000 Mbps will be useful. 

Households of streamers

While Netflix alone doesn’t need super fast connections, if you have a household of multiple regular video streamers, a gigabit internet connection can ensure that multiple viewers can enjoy their favourite shows without the irksome interruptions caused by buffering.

Online gamers

Lower internet speeds often struggle to keep pace with the substantial bandwidth demands of popular online games, leading to frustrating lag and protracted loading periods. If subpar internet performance frequently hinders your online gaming ventures, gigabit internet becomes a compelling consideration.

Working from home/ running a small business

Gigabit internet is enough to run a small business of several people. For those working from home and attending video meetings, a gigabit internet connection can significantly mitigate issues such as lag, freezes, and other technical glitches that have become all too familiar. Transferring large files, whether uploading or downloading, will also be sped up by connecting to gigabit internet. 

Running a smart home

It's easy to overlook the bandwidth demands imposed by home security systems and an array of smart devices, including door locks and lighting systems, but if you have a smart home, you may find you need faster internet than you realised. If you've equipped your home with the latest smart gadgets, gigabit speeds can ensure that all your devices, from work laptops to children's smartphones, maintain robust and swift connections.

So, while not every household needs gigabit internet right now, there are definitely situations where it would make sense. If that’s you, I hope this guide helped you get connected to the speeds you need.

Marshall Thurlow is the Director and Founder of Orion Marketing Pty Ltd.

He is a digital marketer with expertise in SEO, website design, content marketing and project management. With over 15 years of experience spanning government, not-for-profit and the private sector, he is well equipped to lead teams to success. He is a big proponent of environmental sustainability, critical thinking and progressive issues.