Comparison table: Naked DSL broadband plans
Just broadband - great way to save cash if you don't need a telephone line
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Buyers Guide: Naked DSL
What is Naked DSL broadband?
Naked DSL broadband is also sometimes referred to as Naked ADSL2+. By signing up to a Naked DSL package you will be able to kit yourself out with a fast-speed broadband connection without also having to connect a home phone line. So, if you want the flexibility of being able to get online, but aren't fussed on talking on a fixed landline then this could be the perfect option for you.
When you sign up a broadband plan that also bundles in a phone service on a monthly contract you normally also have to pay phone line rental. Obviously that takes the monthly cost up slightly. So, if you don't need that extra service why should you pay for it?
But what does ADSL2+ do?
A standard ADSL broadband line offers download speeds between 256Kb and 7.8Mb, but the newer, speedier ADSL2+ lines can boast broadband speeds up to three times faster than standard ADSL. This means, in theory, you could kit yourself up with a maximum download speed of 24Mb.
As with all broadband services, there's a little bit of small print involved. The actual speeds you receive may vary according to factors such as your distance from the exchange and the amount of traffic on your broadband network. So you can't always guarantee you will be able to receive top speed all of the time.
How much is it?
Naked DSL packages are significantly cheaper than bundled broadband and phone deals. Prices currently range from $40 and vary according to your monthly data allowance, contract length and whether any extras are thrown into the mix.
You should also take note of the Setup column within Broadband Genie's comparison table. Although some providers do offer to setup your broadband connection for free, others require you to pay an upfront fee of up to $200 just to get the ball rolling.
Understanding Contract Length
Whilst it's possible to get hooked up to a Naked DSL broadband plan on a rolling one-month basis, packages are also available on 6, 12 and 24 month plans. It's important to think about how long you are willing to commit to a broadband contract. Once you've signed on the dotted line it will be pretty difficult to stop short a package agreement.
If you're opting for a shorter Naked DSL contract you may find the monthly subscription fee is a litter higher. Alternatively, you might have to pay for the privilege of being on a short notice plan by coughing up for a pricier setup fee. There are pros and cons for all options.
Will I be able to download as much as I like?
Not necessarily. Pay extra close attention to the Downloads column in the comparison table - there may be quite a strict limit on the amount you can download every month.
Broadband providers Dodo and iinet split the day up into "on peak" and "off peak" times, providing you with a fixed data limit to use up every month. Meanwhile Netspace prefers to offer you a maximum data limit which you're free to use up at any time of the day.
It's worth considering how much you will be downloading on a monthly basis to make sure you sign up to a package that suits your online needs. If you opt for a package that's too generous you may end up paying over the odds for your contract. However, if you underestimate how much you will be downloading you could end up with a hefty bill from your provider if you go over your limit.
To give you an idea of what you can do with your data allowance, 1GB will allow you to download over 60 high-res images, 40 music tracks and will be good for all your general browsing needs over the course of the month. With this data cap you should also be able to freely send text-based emails.
The Extras
Some Naked DSL broadband plans offer some attractive extra incentives for you to sign up. You can check these out by looking at the 'Extras' column in the comparison table above.
Many include a free static IP address as a deal breaker. Benefits for having a static IP address include being able to remotely access your home computer and the ability to set up web server software and run a FTP and games server. However, having a static IP address may also mean you're more vulnerable to hacking.
