Nbn keeps dropping out? How to diagnose and fix it

Home & Business Internet Blog | MATE | 6 July 2026

Isn’t it frustrating when your internet drops out for no apparent reason?

With over 85% of the Australian population using the internet, and a global internet speed ranking of 55, it’s no wonder that everyday Aussies experience connectivity issues from time to time.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to improve the performance of your internet connection and reduce the chance of it dropping out. If your nbn keeps dropping out, start by ruling out common Wi-Fi issues before assuming there is a fault with the nbn line.

Here are some troubleshooting tips to help:

Tip #1: check for Wi-Fi radio interference

Your Wi-Fi may be dropping out because of the radio signals that come from different consumer electronic products in your house. For example, if you have Bluetooth devices turned on and are currently using them, you may want to turn them off first if the connection becomes problematic.

Other devices that may affect the signal include your cordless phone, microwave, and even your garage door opener.

If you don’t want to turn off these devices, you can move your router to a spot where they will not interfere with the signal. At least three feet away from the home appliances can help solve this issue, especially if the gadgets are in the same frequency range. Remember, devices transmitting in 2.4 GHz frequency can generate interference with your Wi-Fi. If the problem only affects wireless devices, try using 5 GHz Wi-Fi where possible, as it is generally less congested than 2.4 GHz over shorter distances.

Another solution is to change the radio settings for your Wi-Fi. Typically, the default channel is 6, which you can change if there are other devices in the vicinity of your router.

Tip #2: check the range and power of your wifi network

If there are no appliances that interfere with your Wi-Fi, one possible cause of your internet dropping out is that you are near the edge of the wireless signal range. Surprisingly, it can happen even when your device is close to your home router. The best solution is to relocate your device. Test your connection close to the router before buying extra equipment: a weak Wi-Fi signal can look like an unstable nbn connection, even when the nbn service itself is working normally.

Another method is to upgrade your antenna. You can also use a signal amplifier or booster, which you will attach to the Wi-Fi client or router access point and extend its range.

Tip #3: make sure there is no issue with network overload

Let’s say you are connected to the wireless network and so is your whole family. You may even have your friends over, and they are also using your Wi-Fi. When too many devices are on the same network, it can be difficult for it to accommodate everyone. The available bandwidth for the connected devices may be limited.

As a result, videos stop playing and sites will not load. It can cause your device to disconnect and keep trying to reconnect so you don’t lose the Wi-Fi signal.

The solution is simple: take a few devices off the network. For instance, if your TV is connected and is streaming movies, while someone is playing games, have either of them take a break for a while.

If you or anyone on the network is downloading files, use a piece of software that has bandwidth control. This will prevent other people connected to the Wi-Fi from dropping out.

Tip #4: only connect to a secure Wi-Fi network

LTE infrastructure in Australia has reached almost 96% of the population. However, if you and your neighbours are running an unsecure Wi-Fi connection with the same SSID or name, you could connect to the wrong network. What is worse is that you may have no knowledge that you have connected by mistake.

Interference, as well as range problems, can occur as a result of the above situation. Aside from that, this scenario will cause you to lose your connection when your neighbour decides to turn off the router, even if your real or preferred network is still on.

The best strategy here is to simply take the proper security measures so that your computers or devices will only connect to the right network. Have a unique SSID and use a password.

tip #5: upgrade your network driver or firmware

Device drivers are essential in every piece of software connected to Wi-Fi. Meanwhile, network routers have firmware, which is technically the same. When they are obsolete or corrupted, network drops can happen.

To solve this issue, just update the driver of your device. For instance, if you are using a Windows computer and it keeps disconnecting, see if updating the network drivers can help. You can also upgrade the firmware of your router, which typically prevents the problem from happening again. If the connection is also dropping out on a device connected to the router by Ethernet, the issue may be with the router, local cabling or the nbn connection rather than Wi-Fi coverage.

some extra nbn dropout questions

Why does my nbn keep disconnecting at night?

Night-time dropouts can happen when Wi-Fi congestion, household usage or an underlying connection issue becomes more noticeable. Check whether the outage also affects a device connected via Ethernet, restart your router once, and note the time each dropout occurs.

What causes nbn dropouts?

Common causes include Wi-Fi interference, weak coverage, an overloaded home network, outdated router firmware, damaged cables or a fault affecting the nbn connection. Testing both wired and wireless devices helps identify where the problem is most likely occurring.

Is CG-NAT causing my internet problems?

CG-NAT internet problems are more likely to affect services that require inbound connections, such as certain games, remote-access tools, and hosting setups. CG-NAT does not usually cause the entire nbn service to disconnect, so check your Wi-Fi, router and line first when the connection drops out completely.

What is the difference between FTTN and FTTP for connection stability?

FTTN uses fibre to a nearby node, then copper for the final part of the connection to your property. FTTP uses fibre all the way to the premises. Because FTTN relies on a copper segment, FTTN outages can sometimes be due to faults or performance issues affecting that part of the line.

How do I check if the problem is my router or the nbn line?

Connect a device to the router using an Ethernet cable. If only Wi-Fi devices disconnect, focus on router placement, Wi-Fi settings and interference. If both wired and wireless devices lose access, check the router and its cables, then record the times and the router light behaviour to share with your provider.

When should I lodge a fault with my ISP?

Lodge a fault when the nbn keeps dropping out on multiple devices, including an Ethernet-connected device, after you have restarted the router and checked the cables. Give your provider the dates and times of dropouts, plus any changes to the router or nbn connection box lights.

Does a static IP fix nbn dropouts?

A static IP does not fix Wi-Fi interference, a failing router or a physical line fault. It can be useful for remote access or hosting, but it will not resolve an nbn unstable connection or recurring nbn dropouts.

Wrapping up

When you know what is wrong with your connection, it becomes easier to detect the problem and find a solution. Try these methods and see how you go!

If you’re still dealing with internet dropouts after working through these checks, explore MATE’s nbn plans to find a straightforward internet option for your household.