Gigabit Internet: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

As internet usage continues to evolve, the demand for faster and more reliable connections has never been higher. Among the options available, gigabit internet stands out as a premium offering, delivering speeds of  1,000Mbps (1Gbps) and soon, 2Gbps may be arriving  from September of 2025.

This guide explores what gigabit internet is, who it’s best suited for, and its benefits and drawbacks. By the end, you’ll know if this ultra-fast connection is the right choice for your household or business. 

What is Gigabit Internet? 

Gigabit internet delivers broadband speeds of up to 1,000Mbps (1Gbps), significantly faster than standard plans offering 25Mbps to 100Mbps. 

This speed is primarily supported by fibre-optic connections, though some cable and fixed wireless networks also offer gigabit speeds. With this technology, users can enjoy seamless streaming, rapid downloads, and support for multiple devices without performance lags. 

Who Needs Gigabit Internet? 

While not everyone needs gigabit internet, it can be transformative for specific users: 

1. Large Households: Ideal for homes with multiple users streaming, gaming, or working online simultaneously. 
2. Remote Workers and Businesses: Perfect for video conferencing, large file downloads or cloud-based applications. 
3. Gamers: Provides the speed needed for lag-free gaming. 
4. Tech Enthusiasts: Supports the latest home devices like 4k and 8k TVs. 

Advantages of Gigabit Internet 

1. Lightning-Fast Speeds: Gigabit internet allows you to download large files, stream 4K or 8K videos, and handle data-heavy tasks with ease. For instance, downloading a 10GB file takes just a matter of seconds with gigabit speeds. 
2. Seamless Multi-Device Usage: In a typical household, there might be multiple devices connected to the internet at any given time - laptops, smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and more. Gigabit internet ensures all devices can run simultaneously without buffering or slowdowns. 
3. Future-Proofing Your Connection: As technology advances, data demands will only increase. Upgrading to gigabit internet now ensures your connection can handle future needs, from augmented reality applications to virtual meetings in ultra-high definition.  

Potential Drawbacks of Gigabit Internet 

1. Higher Cost: Gigabit nbn internet plans are generally more expensive than standard internet packages. Depending on your usage, you may not fully utilise the speeds you’re paying for, making it an unnecessary expense for some households. 
2. Limited Availability: Not all areas have access to gigabit internet, particularly in rural or remote locations. Availability often depends on the infrastructure provided by local internet service providers. 
3. Hardware Requirements: To make the most of gigabit internet, you’ll need compatible equipment, such as a gigabit-capable modem and router. Older devices may not support such high speeds, limiting your experience. 
4. Diminishing Returns for Casual Users: If you primarily use the internet for basic browsing, emailing, and occasional streaming, the jump from a 100Mbps plan to gigabit speeds may not be noticeable. 

How to Determine if Gigabit Internet is Right for You 

1. Assess Your Usage: Evaluate whether your household needs higher speeds for simultaneous streaming, gaming, or work tasks. 
2. Check Your Device Performance: Run tests to determine if your devices are loading and performing as required. 
3. Consider Your Budget: Compare the cost of upgrading against your existing expenses and equipment needs. 
4. Look at Future Needs: Consider how your internet usage might change in the next few years. If you anticipate higher demands due to remote work, online learning, or smart home expansions, gigabit internet could be a practical long-term solution.

How to Get the Most Out of Gigabit Internet

If you decide to upgrade, here’s how you can maximise your gigabit internet experience: 
1. Use a Wired Connection: While Wi-Fi is convenient, it can’t always deliver the full speed of gigabit internet. For the fastest and most reliable connection, use an Ethernet cable to connect high-priority devices like gaming consoles or desktop computers. 
2. Upgrade Your Equipment: Ensure your modem and router are gigabit capable. Investing in a modern, high-performance router can make a significant difference in your internet experience. 
3. Optimise Your Network Setup: Position your router in a central, elevated location to ensure strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Use Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems if you have a larger property. 
4. Monitor Network Usage: Keep an eye on bandwidth-intensive activities, especially during peak times. 
5. Test Your Speed Regularly: Perform periodic speed tests to ensure you’re getting the performance you’re paying for. If speeds fall short, contact your provider for assistance. 

Alternatives to Gigabit Internet 

If gigabit speeds are unavailable or unnecessary, consider these options: 

• Upgrade to a Higher-Speed Plan: Plans between 100Mbps and 500Mbps meet most household needs. 
• Optimise Your Current Setup: Upgrade equipment or use Ethernet for better performance. 

The Future of Gigabit Internet 

As internet demands grow, gigabit speeds are becoming increasingly essential. Advances in technology, such as 10Gbps fibre networks and widespread 5G adoption, promise even faster connections in the coming years. Investing in gigabit internet now not only improves your current experience but also positions you for future advancements.

Is Gigabit Internet Worth It? 

Gigabit internet offers high speed and reliability, making it ideal for large households, remote workers, gamers, and tech enthusiasts. However, it’s not a universal solution. Before upgrading, consider your current and future needs, budget, and local availability. 

For those who rely heavily on the internet for work, entertainment, or connected devices, gigabit internet is a powerful tool that often justifies the investment. By understanding its benefits and limitations, you can make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle.