How to Get Wired Internet in Another Room of Your Melbourne Home

Video calls freezing in the home office? Gaming console buffering in the rumpus room? If your internet is fast next to the modem but slow everywhere else, the fix may not be a faster plan. It may be a data point: a wired internet connection in the wall, right where you need it.

Wi-Fi vs a wired data point

Wi-Fi is convenient, but walls, floors, distance and other devices all weaken it. A data point (also called an ethernet point) runs a cable from your modem or router to a wall outlet in another room. You plug your computer, TV or console straight in.

• More stable: a wired connection doesn’t drop out when the microwave goes on or the neighbours’ Wi-Fi is busy.
• Faster in practice: you get much closer to the speed your plan provides.
• Frees up your Wi-Fi: fewer devices competing on the wireless network.

New to the idea? Our explainer what is a data point? covers the basics.

Signs you need a data point

• Video calls freeze in rooms far from the modem.
• Your smart TV or console buffers, even on a fast plan.
• Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems haven’t fixed the dead spots.
• Your NBN connection box is in an awkward spot, such as the garage or a front room.

Can I move my NBN box instead?

Sometimes people would rather move the NBN connection box itself. That’s arranged through your internet provider and NBN, and it isn’t always possible or quick. Often the simpler option is to leave the NBN box where it is and run data cabling from the modem to the rooms you need.

What installation involves

• Site check: the technician works out where your modem is and the best cable route to each room.
• Cable run: data cable is run through the roof space, wall cavities or under the floor, so there are no cables across the room.
• Wall plate fitted: a neat, flush outlet is installed where you want it.
• Tested end to end: each point is tested to confirm a working connection.

Single-storey homes with roof access are usually the most straightforward. Double-storey homes, brick walls and concrete slabs need more planning.

Why it needs a registered cabler

In Australia, fixed data cabling in a home must be installed by a registered cabler. That protects your home’s wiring and makes sure the work meets the standard. Running your own cable through the walls isn’t just tricky; it isn’t allowed.

Add a TV point at the same time

If you’re also missing free-to-air TV in that room, a TV point and a data point can be installed in the same visit. See our guide on how to install a TV point.

Frequently asked questions

How many data points can I have?

As many as your modem or a network switch can handle. Many homes add points to the office, lounge and main bedroom.

Will a data point make my internet plan faster?

It won’t raise your plan’s speed, but it helps you get closer to it in rooms where Wi-Fi is weak.

How long does it take?

One or two points in a single-storey home can often be done in a single visit.

Want reliable internet in every room? Get a quote for data point installation in Melbourne and tell us which rooms you want connected.