FAQs

Common questions about broadband are answered here. See also our Speeds and Usage page for specific information on these topics

How fast is Broadband?

HomePlan broadband is available as Maximum or Launch. Maximum speed means you will receive the highest speed your Broadband connection can deliver. Many things will determine the actual speed of your Broadband connection, such as:

• The speed of the plan you have chosen
• The distance your home is from your telephone exchange
• The time of day
• The number of other broadband users connected at that point in time
• The quality of your phone line and/or your internal house wiring
• Where the information your are receiving is coming from
• The processing speed of your computer

Launch broadband operates at a speed of 256kbps download.

What does ADSL stand for?

ADSL, stands for Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line. It works over your existing phone line and allows you to make phone calls and use the Internet at the same time.

Can I switch from another broadband provider to TelstraClear's broadband service?

Yes, and we can manage the changeover for you. If you are in a contract term with your previous provider, they may apply an early termination charge.

What happens to my email address if I switch to TelstraClear from another provider?

Your email address will change from username@otherprovider.co.nz to username@clear.net.nz .You will need to advise friends and family to send email to your new email address.

What happens to my existing paradise.net or Clearnet email address if I am already with TelstraClear?

Any Clearnet email addresses you had before taking broadband will be the same. If you want to keep your dial-up internet plan in addition to broadband then this is an additional charge.

Paradise users will need to change their email address to Clearnet. If you want to keep your existing Paradise email address or dial-up internet plan in addition to broadband then an additional charge applies.

What is the difference between downloading and uploading?

Downloading means the information you receive from the internet and uploading means the information you send to the internet.

Should I have a wireless router?

A wireless router allows you the flexibility to use your internet connection from wherever you are in your house and is ideal if you have a laptop computer or multiple computers in your household.  

Can I have a static IP address?

Yes

What is a static I.P address?

When you connect to broadband you are given an I.P address, which is simply a set of numbers defining the connection. This changes each time you connect however if you want this to remain the same each time you connect then you need a static I.P address. Most people don’t need this however it may be needed if you have your own server or for security requirements.     

Can I get help setting up my service at home?

As a TelstraClear customer, you receive a discount with our partner company Geeks on Wheels, who can come to your home and set up and install your computer for you. To find out more about Geeks on Wheels, see their website www.geeksonwheels.co.nz.

What do I need to know about SPAM and Viruses?

Information on Spam and viruses can be found on our Spam and Virus Protection page.

What are the minimum computer requirements needed to enable broadband?

• PC
  Pentium II or better
  Windows 2000, ME, XP, Vista or 7
  64 MB RAM
  40 MB Free space on hard drive
  Ethernet Card
  CD ROM Drive Required
  Internet Browser IE 5.0+ (not Win '95)
  
  
• MAC
  Power Macintosh
  OS 9.0+
  64 MB RAM
  40 MB Free space on hard drive
  Ethernet Card
  CD ROM Drive Required
  Internet Browser