Whirlpool

Heya.

I'm presently on VBB@home and having a fairly typical experience with them. For reasons of brevity, I won't into all the problems, apart from saying that they're the usual ones (constant dropouts, frequent need to disconnect/reconnect/reboot), and that I've tried the usual fixes (UMTS only, firmware upgrades, etc). But this isn't what this question is about.

It's quite possible that I could make a solid case to get rid of this awful service, but again, this isn't what I'm asking- I can use the search tool for that. The problem is that I don't know where to go next.

I'm behind a RIM, and there are no free ports, so land-based ADSL isn't an option. No longer have a normal phone connection (using VBB), but I'd be willing to get it reconnected. Whatever solution is used, it has to be able to handle multiple machines (ie. single-machine dongle is not enough). As far as I can tell, my only realistic options are those that go over the mobile networks. And from what I can see, the options aren't great.

Given the time, effort, and expense associated with dropping VBB, I don't want to do all of that and end up somewhere just as bad, or worse.

Paying more isn't a problem, given that I'm burning so much time on disconnect/reconnect/reboot loops with VBB that it'd be cheaper to pay double to make the problems go away anyway. I'm also in no hurry, no plans to make a major move in the new month or two (personal reasons), but I'm starting to research my escape options.

So I'm wondering, are there any ex-VBB users who've ditched the service for something better, possibly still reading the threads to remind themselves of what they went through previously, who moved on, and can recommend their new service?

Don't know where you live so other options may be available.

I had the shits and got out of VBB too. Ringing them to cancel today.

I went with Telstra Next G.

At the moment with their special deal.

You get the 7.2 Gateway Modem which has 4 ethernet ports and also wireless ability.
You can go with the 10GB plan which is at $129.95 reduced by half price for the first 12 months.
You need an eligible phone line so you need to get the phone put back on. This will depend on your negotiating skills but I reckon you could swing them around to get a freebie for it. I know others have and Telstra seem to want people back at the moment.
Also ask them for the $110 credit for switching to them.
You can also ask them to drop the phone to the lowest plan of $19.95 if you don't use the phone much.
Also ask them for a 10 day cooling off period so if it doesn't work for you you can send the whole lot back without paying anything. Just explain your problems with wireless networking and how much they scare you.
You will need to sign up for the 36 months contract to get all of the above.

Sign up for it and then cancel at the end of 12 months and pay $240 to exit the contract. Small price to pay.

Hopefully in 12 months time, You will have a free ADSL port by then.
Maybe something else will come along.

I've done just that to buy me 12 months and then see what is available then.

So the total cost is :

$19.95 – Phone
$65 – Internet 10GB half price from $129.95
You get $110 credit

All up $85 which is only $25 more and you get peace of mine and speed plus and also a fixed line phone.
I must have a 7.2 tower and I am getting speeds of over 450KB+

A cheaper phone is the PrePaid At Home Service which is $13.95
if all the phone is needed for is infrequent calls and a robust line
for 000 calls.

The APC survey mirrors the results that generally found in WP.

Virgin has not provided the resources to supply the service .

None of the non Telstra Providers stands out of having any
reasonable degree of reliability.

Wireless Broadband remains a mess and the prognosis is poor,
with no indication of any changes to resolve the ongoing issues.

Toongy:

Thanks for all that information. All that detail and I forgot to mention the obvious. I'm in SA (which I forgot to mention), in a suburb behind a RIM with no free ports, so ADSL is out.

Is the over-mobile Telstra stuff as bad as their land-based offerings? Haven't heard much love for Bigpond. Have you been using the over-mobile stuff for long, can you recommend it?

Dave:

I thought it might be the case. We might be waiting a while for this area of the market to mature, and I'm not enjoying it. Worse, I've had Internode ADSL at another place, so I know how good it can be when you can get it. :`(

Right now if you have DSL stay
If you not, then it is wireless.

Some of the non mainstream wireless ISPs
using non mobile phone based technology are OK.
These are urban fringe rural based and tend to be
taken over every 6 months or so.

This is a churn in this area where one
takes over another and the result is not much fun.
See otherbroadband not wireless.

WiMax still remains not available in Oz, with Channel 7
still testing the techology, which under the circumstances
is a good thing.

If C7,unWired,engin et al are able to provide a stable service
then this will bleed the incumbents of clients lowering their
system load.

This may improve service for those on 24 month contracts
who believe what is on TV adverts.

GarthD writes...

I'm in SA

If you are in SA, then maybe you can try internode Wireless.
Another mob to have a look at is NuSkope

I don't know SA that well although I lived there for 2 years working down there LOL

I have only joined up Telstra yesterday so I can't say if things will last that way.
But if you look at all their threads, you don't hear much whinging about it at all.

Naked DSL? I left VBB@home (woo hoo) and now with iinet naked dsl – it's great; and the customer service is awesome too.

The OP is behing a RIM which means no ADSL let alone ADSL2

GarthD writes...

Is the over-mobile Telstra stuff as bad as their land-based offerings?

My experience with PigPond ADSL was so frightfully bad that I moved to a completely different telecommunications network.

OTOH, I use Telstra Mobile data products (as opposed to Bigpond), and they're really rather good. It's vastly superior to the other carriers products at present, although things weren't always this way. Customer service sucks, but I wouldn't expect anything less from Telstra.

Also consider Exetel and/or iPrimus. I haven't read much in the way of negative feedback regarding either option. Both use the Optus network, but both also provide their own IP services, rather than use Optus.

Internode has a wireless service, they may be OK.

Call them and let us know what the offer is.

When I lived in Adelaide I worked with Internode to roll out some of their services to Mt Barker and the Yorke Peninsula as a supplier. If only every ISP was as good. All great people to work with and very customer focussed.

If only they offered a service here in NSW.

Adam if you are in SA is great as well, and did work with some of their engineers.

Here in NSW have worked with some of the Unwired people and they are very switched on as well. But have no personal experience of their service.

Next G works really well but, it is too expensive. The other mobile networks probably offer a better deal. If Internode wireless is in your area then, that would be the best option IMO. If not, hang out till Optus' UMTS900 network comes online and see if the wireless prices change with competition... I ditched VBB for Naked. It was the next best thing, & so much better :-D. Look in to Internodes wireless network first, me thinks.

Internode uses WiMax. I trust this WBB does not go to a Beta Vs VHS
when the inferior system, because it is most in use becomes the default
standard system.

WiMax was chosen by Internode for a good reason, they appear to make
good calls most of the time.

Toongy/Dave:

I'd love to be on Internode wireless. <3 <3 If I wasn't renting, I'd even consider the $1199 setup fee. Unfortunately, I'm renting, and renewal is in four months, and there are simply no guarantees with my rental agent. I'm pretty sure the ABG won't cover me, my closest exchange is ADSL2 for several companies. I'm stuck behind a RIM though, no ports on our street. This means that broadband is offered in our area, just that nobody else can actually get it. If someone can correct me on the ABG, and understands what impact signing up for it and moving house would have, please let me know.

If they had portable units though (yes, I know that doesn't make sense), I'd definitely weigh it up. The renting situation makes it difficult for me.

I'll say one thing though- I'd love to see an Internode-managed over-mobile solution. I know they'd be at the mercy of the wholesaler, but they're still doing okay over Telstra with ADSL. REALLY BIG GIGANTIC HINT FOR INTERNODE REPS READING.

Dave:

No ADSL, behind a RIM, no ports free. I can't repeatedly apply any more as I no longer have a Telstra service. My street has been out of ports for quite a while now (a year and a half), several people are wanting service that I know of, and there are no build plans from Telstra. Not likely to change. Had ADSL in my last three places.

port:

I'd heard about the difference there. Seems they can manage a mobile network fine, just are poor at offering products that use it, and generally poor customer service. I'd just feel so dirty going with Telstra for over-mobile network service given how they handle Bigpond.

Booyukka:

Being behind a RIM rules out naked plans, I think.

richary:

Thanks for the tips. Would use Internode again in a heartbeat, if it was an option. I used them for ADSL at three places for several, and it was top-notch at the first two, and would have been top-notch at the third if not for line noise issues (see: Telstra).

.......

Thanks for all the responses. Taking into account the RIM and rental situation, it seems that, of all places, Telstra might be one of the better places to look at?

Telstra have re-jinked their Wireless Broadband plans...they now have a 5gb liberty plan that is shaped to 64kb instead of being subject to excess charges.

I think your option is going to be Telstra being a renter as well and all the other things you have mentioned.

I reckon it's not a bad deal being Telstra and all, I know they shouldn't be rewarded as it's their fault in the first place that you and I can't get ADSL.

Sign up to the 36 months contract and get the first 12 months half price.
You get the 7.2 Home Gateway Modem/Router for free or rather a rebate I found out now but it still ends up being free and you get to keep that. It's quite a nice bit of equipment. 4 Ethernet ports and wireless as well.
Choose either the 5GB or 10GB Liberty plans which are now capped.
At then end of 12 months see what happens. It cost $240 after a year to ditch the contract. so add $20 a month.

• Don't forget to get their once off Welcome Credit of $110 credit so that does help bring down the exit fee. $240 – $110 = $130 / 12 = $10.83 extra a month instead of $20. Squeeze whatever you can out of them ***

The 5GB would work out to be $89.95 / 2 = $44.97 + $11 = $56
which is only $5 more than Virgin but you don't get free calls.
You still need to add $19.95 to the phone line rental to get the deal I guess.

So it is $16 more expensive but I tell you it's 110% better than Virgin. I've had it just over a week now and been bashing the crap out of it. No drop outs, no missed pings, The Mynetphone VOIP works great after a bit of tweaking. I can play my online poker without fear of it dropping out. I don't play any of the intensive online games so don't know how they go.

There is also heaps of unmetered stuff, so I can watch ABC TV online, Watch Movies Trailer previews, News, and heaps of other things I haven't had a chance to play with yet. And it is smooth as. I acutally use NetLimiter2 Pro to slow down the video streaming from other unmetered websites as my wife likes to watch PPLive shows from China. I slow it down to 60KB and it works fine otherwise it streams at 120KB + and it's just a waste.
She loves it , just have to stop her from using up those GB's before the end of the month. LOL
Also she can now ring home to China on the MyNetphone and not struggle to hear what they are saying.

I'm happy I did the switch.

Toongy writes...

Also she can now ring home to China on the MyNetphone and not struggle to hear what they are saying.

can I please get some more info on using mynetphone and bigpond wireless broadband.

I use mynetphone now with virgin but I just use it via my existing phone plugged into Virgin's option modem. I ring the syd or melb mynetphone number and get prompted to enter the number I want to call (I use it for non virgin mobiles and international calls) and voila.

If I do away with Virgin and and want to get by on bigpond wireless or even a naked dsl service can I buy some voip hardware to use with mynetphone?

tia
Tony

I personally went to Naked DSL but since that is out the question for you due to the RIM I'd suggest the $129 NextG plan Toongy has already mentioned with the 7.2 home gateway. It'll be reliable, and it's also now shaped to 64k- meaning you can use your 10GB and not worry about excess charges.

Best deal your likely to find I'm afraid.

You could buy a VoIP ATA device and connect that to the 7.2 home gateway to use with the MNF service. They aren't overly expensive, just make sure you get a reputable brand: Draytek or Billion are best.

cycl0ne184 writes...

If I do away with Virgin and and want to get by on bigpond wireless or even a naked dsl service can I buy some voip hardware to use with mynetphone?

Suggest you look at the MNF threads in the VoiP section. In brief MNF sell ATA's preconfigured which allow you to connect your standard phone to the broadband. Toongy has more information about 3G and this than I. I've only started using MNF since I got real ADSL – landline based.

OK Boys and Girls.

It's quite simple with the mynetphone solution and it's basically free for the VOIP device.

Being a whirlpool member does have it's advantages.
Go to this website.
https://www.mynetfone.com.au/whirlpool

This will take you to specials just for us, people on whirlpool.
From there you can select the Whirlpool Saver which is $0 per month and it is pay as you go. This gives you untimes 10 cent calls local and STD. No International number and no (DID) Direct Dial In Number.

Or you can pay $4.95 a month and get 60 free calls. which include local, STD, ISD to 30 countries on their list untimed. After that you get charged 10cents untimed.
Australian Mobiles are charged at 15c per min, per second billing

Having a look at their website now, Their offers keep changing which is a real bugger and it seems like they have run out of Netgear TA612V's which is what I am using. I paid $20 for it and got $20 of credit which made it free.

The best deal you can get now is with the offer below
https://www.mynetfone.com.au/offers/whirlpool/whirlpool-specials/linksys-page-376/
It's $39.95 and you get $20 credit. Or you can wait around for a while and see if something else better comes along.

All you need to do then is plug that ATA VOIP adapter into one of the 4 LAN ports of your Telstra 7.2 Home Gateway and away you go.
You might need to do some tweaking with the port forwarding but I can help you with that.

Now I'm going to go into the Mynetphone threads and whinge about their crappy deal. :-P

Toongy writes...

Whirlpool Saver which is $0 per month and it is pay as you go. This gives you untimes 10 cent calls local and STD. No International number and no (DID) Direct Dial In Number.

Ah but you do get a single DID with this plan when you buy equipment from them. I love this particular plan cause my calls are low. You can change at any time in any case.

The best deal you can get now is with the offer below
https://www.mynetfone.com.au/offers/whirlpool/whirlpool-specials/linksys-page-376/It's $39.95 and you get $20 credit. Or you can wait around for a while and see if something else better comes along.

Methinks if you look in the MNF threads for whirlpool there is a better offer available with the Linksys SPA2100 for $20 with $20 credit.

Dancing Bear writes...

Linksys SPA2100 for $20 with $20 credit

It's $20 but only $5 credit.
I can't find that deal your saying.
Care to share ?

Methinks if you look in the MNF threads for whirlpool there is a better offer available with the Linksys SPA2100 for $20 with $20 credit.

Jobby writes...

Naked DSL? I left VBB@home (woo hoo) and now with iinet naked dsl – it's great; and the customer service is awesome too.

You are not the only one to have moved to iinet Jobby. I have thee questions for you or others that made the move:

1) Had you got rid of your landline connection and ported your number while with Virgin?

2) If so, what was needed to signup to iinet?

3)Did you need to pay Telstra for the line to be activated again or something?

Toongy writes...

I can't find that deal your saying.
Care to share ?

My bad, misread the MNF offer – sorry.

AFCfan writes...

Did you need to pay Telstra for the line to be activated again or something

Im thinking of moving out of VBB as well.
I dont want to have a landline — mine is disconnected now.

What happens with phones, post VBB?

I guess the phone number just ends up in never never land.
I couldn't care where mine's ended up at, as long as I'm not being charged for it.
I know other people would like their number so they would know what is needed to be done.

You're saying you don't care about your number so why even worry about it.

pinkfan writes...

I dont want to have a landline — mine is disconnected now.

Toongy writes...

["You're saying you don't care about your number so why even worry about it.

Hi Toongy,
No I dont care either, just meant that now I have to look at
supplying myself with a phone- so i am busy getting myself an education here. Never dealt with DSL and voips ect before.
So I am on the learning curve and looking at Extel and
iinet ect,( be a relief to escape Verging forever.couldnt do worse.
Verging on a breakdown here,

Well, I'm more than happy to help and I'm sure there are others too that are happy to help.
This is what this forum is about, there is lots of nice people here to help you.

What are you thinking of moving to ?
If you want ADSL or ADSL2+ then you need to get the phone line put back on.
If you want Naked ADSL then someone else will have to help you more with this. I haven't tried Naked.

Can you get the above ?
You should be able to use your old phone number when you had a line conected to find out if you can get the above services.

Post your questions and I'm answer whatever I can.

AFCfan writes...

You are not the only one to have moved to iinet Jobby. I have thee questions for you or others that made the move:

1) Had you got rid of your landline connection and ported your number while with Virgin?

No, still had the landline going. Hadn't ported the number though. I just don't use the home phone at all (and the only incoming calls are spam anyway, so I don't answer it even if it does ring) so it was no biggy.

2) If so, what was needed to signup to iinet?

see above.

3)Did you need to pay Telstra for the line to be activated again or something?

Nope. Hazard a guess, I don't think that the line would ever be made 'inactive', it's just a question of who is servicing it. Telstra will get it's line fee money from iinet rather than me as an individual, I think.

Toongy writes...

If you want Naked ADSL then someone else will have to help you more with this. I haven't tried Naked.

As I understand it you cannot get naked without a phone line. You can have it disconnected after you get naked, but you still need it initially.

I'm afraid pinkfan you're going to need a line to even find out what you can get. If you're OK loosing you're number, then phone telstra, tell them the situation and ask to have a new number connected to your old line. Worst case scenario cost is $59 or something like that. You can put it on the $21 plan for now till you know what is possible.

Then once you have ADSL, then you can use VoiP for your o/g calls and, if you like, keep the Telstra line for incoming. You can also combine them with a suitable ATA such as the Linksys SPA3102. both Pennytel and MNF offer this at a reasonable price. MNF is perhaps better in terms of having it come pre-configured.

Pinkfan, good luck – this will all take some time, but you will not look back.

Oh and if all else fails, toongy has the NextG thing working well at a reasonable cost.

Thanks very much Toongy and Dancing Bear...

I think I will need some advice in the next few weeks somehow,
as I comb through the providers,

Cheers.

GarthD writes...

VBB – Where to go next?

Next G? Satellite?

All the best! :-D

whichever mobile provider you choose, be it 3, or reseller or optus or voda, you could always get one of those usb-stick routers thingys...

the one for 3 mobile is here –
http://www.three.com.au/cs/ContentServer?c=Page&pagename=Three%2FPage%2FBusinessVideoCallingTemplate&cid=1221530694664

i imagine you can get them from other sources as well, so if your only options is an internet key then you can still make it work for multiple machines...

I've just ditched the VBB "service" for Optus cable – the $99 Fusion deal. I'm still going to wait and see whether that was a smart move or not – being under the same ownership and all. We were spending upwards of $110/month, and would have liked to call family more but with the ridiculous call rates to mobiles from VBB, we were watching the clock the entire time.

I had to pay $150 in early termination fees, but consider it a small price for not having to explain to people why the phone was constantly dropping out, and bringing my work Tel$tra wireless card home in case we HAD to use the internet. I tried and tried to get let out penalty free, but guess what – the towers in your area will be upgraded/serviced/replaced/decorated with a Christmas bauble soon, there will be no more problems then.

The installation of the Optus service itself was really easy, a tech came to our house (remember seeing actual service technicians in the flesh??), it was done in a day, and we off and surfing at >15MB/s, call quality was great.

However, the process of porting my phone number to Optus cable was hell. The have a special internal department that deals with the switch of VBB to Optus, yet I was told many times that it was impossible to do. Of course, the sales guys at the front end of the deal were "positive" that it could be done, that was the only way I was going to switch over. I called every day for over a week, ranted, raved, threatened to leave and wasn't going to pay a penalty. I've got a list as long as my arm of people who were going to call me back and never did. In the end it turned out that the technician who installed the box on the side of my house hadn't written down the serial number, a new tech came yesterday, called in the info, and the home number was switched in 5 minutes.

First impressions last, and my first impression of their customer service center is mixed. I did get some very helpful people, but there were some absolute losers too. Their internal communication between departments is pathetic. I just hope I never have to deal with them again.

First impressions of the phone and internet access itself is great. I have considered other options, like naked DSL / VOIP, but we tried living without a landline and just using VOIP a few years ago, maybe it wasn't mature enough then but we had huge problems and we're a bit hesitant to go down that path again just yet.

The best thing was walking in and seeing my wife on the phone to her sister, who only has a mobile, they'd been chatting about nothing for over an hour, and she was so happy. No huge bill, and no dropped call.

I hope this continues, I'll give you an update later.