NBN Faults: Why Your Internet Keeps Dropping and How to Fix It

NBN Faults: Why Your Internet Keeps Dropping and How to Fix It

Having a stable internet connection is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. But what happens when your NBN connection becomes unstable or drops altogether? The culprit is often NBN faults, which are far more common than most people realise. These faults can lead to repeated disconnections, slow download speeds, or complete service blackouts.

If you're tired of your internet dropping out, this guide is for you. We'll break down the typical causes of NBN faults, how to detect them early, and the steps you can take to restore a strong and consistent connection.

What Are NBN Faults?

NBN faults refer to problems that disrupt or reduce the quality of your broadband service. These issues can originate inside your home (like faulty wiring or damaged sockets) or externally (like line faults or network issues). Some are temporary, while others require immediate professional repair.

The key to fixing NBN faults is identifying where the issue is occurring—whether inside your property or outside on the NBN network.

Signs You’re Dealing with NBN Faults

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to recognize the signs of NBN faults. Here are some indicators:

• Internet disconnects repeatedly throughout the day

• Modem shows flashing or red indicator lights

• Speeds drop significantly, even during off-peak times

• You cannot connect to certain websites or online services

• Internet works intermittently or only on some devices

Each of these symptoms suggests different types of NBN faults, which we’ll cover in detail below.

Top Causes of NBN Faults

1. Line Interference

If you live in an area where the NBN uses older copper lines (such as FTTN or FTTB), interference from nearby electrical sources or outdated cabling can cause NBN faults. This type of interference weakens the signal between your property and the node.

Solution:
Use shielded cables and ensure your modem is positioned away from electrical devices like microwaves, cordless phones, or Bluetooth speakers.

2. Water-Damaged Cables

Moisture ingress is a serious yet overlooked cause of NBN faults. If water enters the cabling pit outside your home or seeps into internal wall sockets, it can corrode wiring and disrupt your service.

Solution:
Have an NBN-certified technician inspect outdoor pits and internal wall sockets for moisture damage. Proper sealing and rerouting may be required.

3. Overloaded Modem or Router

If multiple devices are using your connection at once—especially for streaming, gaming, or video conferencing—your router may become overwhelmed, causing service to drop or slow down.

Solution:
Reboot your modem regularly and consider upgrading to a higher-capacity router that can handle more simultaneous connections.

4. Faulty Internal Wiring

Old, damaged, or improperly installed internal wiring is one of the most common reasons for persistent NBN faults. This is particularly relevant in homes with legacy telephone wiring still connected to the NBN line.

Solution:
A professional inspection and rewiring service can help isolate the issue. Modern, high-grade cables reduce interference and ensure better performance.

5. Modem Configuration Issues

Sometimes, NBN faults are caused by incorrect modem settings or outdated firmware. If your modem isn't configured to match your provider's specifications, it can lead to dropped connections or slow speeds.

Solution:
Contact your ISP for the correct setup parameters. Also, check the manufacturer’s site to see if a firmware update is available for your modem.

What to Do When You Suspect NBN Faults

Step 1: Check Your NBN Box

Look for status lights on the NBN Connection Device. A flashing red or no light at all usually signals a fault. If only the “Power” light is on, the device isn’t connecting to the network.

Step 2: Reboot Everything

Switch off your modem and NBN box, wait 60 seconds, then turn them back on. This simple step often resolves temporary NBN faults.

Step 3: Try a Different Socket

If your property has multiple wall sockets, try using a different one to connect your modem. This helps determine if the fault is socket-related.

Step 4: Eliminate Interference

Unplug other devices connected to the phone line or data point, such as splitters or fax machines. These can introduce noise and degrade your signal.

Step 5: Call a Technician

If none of these steps work, it's time to call an expert. A qualified NBN technician can pinpoint the exact source of NBN faults using specialized tools and experience.

Preventing Future NBN Faults

While some NBN faults are unavoidable due to external network issues, many internal problems can be prevented with regular maintenance. Here are a few tips:

• Keep your modem firmware updated

• Use high-quality Ethernet cables and power surge protectors

• Avoid DIY cable extensions unless you're qualified

• Book annual inspections of your home’s data infrastructure

By investing in preventative care, you reduce the risk of future disruptions and ensure your broadband performs at its best.

Conclusion

NBN faults can feel like a constant battle, especially when you're not sure where the problem lies. From internal wiring to weather-exposed cabling, the causes are varied—but they all share one outcome: unreliable internet. By understanding the root causes and taking proactive steps, you can restore and maintain a dependable connection.

For persistent NBN faults, the best solution is to call a certified technician who can provide targeted diagnostics and reliable repairs. With the right professional support, you can enjoy uninterrupted internet access no matter where you live or work.