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Getting the best out of your home internet network

Due to COVID-19, Kiwis will be spending more time working or learning at home. New Zealand’s broadband networks will be able to handle the increased demand, but it is important that you ensure that your home network is up to scratch.

Tips for fast broadband

  • Use a high-spec modem and a high-spec laptop or computer.
  • Keep your browser up to date.
  • Make sure you're using up-to-date antivirus software. Viruses can slow your internet down.
  • Check your data usage. You may go back to dial-up speed for the rest of your billing month if you reach your monthly data allowance.
  • If the broadband seems slow, reset the modem by turning it off for a couple of minutes, then turning it on again.
  • Devices and appliances like baby monitors, cordless phones or microwaves can interfere with your modem’s signal. So make sure you don’t keep them directly next to your modem.
  • Place your modem in a central part of the house up nice and high. Hiding it under a desk or in a cupboard may block its signal.
  • If your modem is more than five years old, you may need to look into getting an upgrade.
  • Your WiFi speed can slow down when several devices are online at the same time. There are solutions such as Spark Smart Mesh which may help improve your WiFi if there are several people using the internet at home. Learn about Spark Smart Mesh

Steps to check your modem

If you’re not happy with the internet speed you’re getting, call us on 0800 22 55 98.

See more tips on how to get the best out of your home internet network

Ensuring we can continue to support changing business needs and working from home

For a number of years, we have invested in our network capacity, so we're confident we can manage a significant increase in network traffic as a result of people being at home. But there may be times when the service is slower than usual.

Spark is a lifeline utility, and as referenced in the Government’s new Alert Levels advisory, these utilities are expected to remain up and running regardless of the level enacted. 

As such, we have robust plans in place to ensure we can continue to provide services and support to New Zealand at all levels of COVID-19.

As a technology company we are well positioned to support our people working remotely. The vast majority of our people, outside our specialist and business-critical functions, are now working from home.

We have been working with our business customers to help them prepare for changing workforce requirements, including an increase in working remotely, and ensuring they have what they need to keep their businesses going.

We have developed a guide to help all of our customers adapt to working remotely as efficiently as possible.

Download the checklist for large businesses

Download our small business guide here

Working with industry to support New Zealand

At times like this we can do more as a collective than we can on our own. As we have done during past crisis situations and natural disasters, we will work with our industry colleagues to ensure we provide New Zealand with a resilient network and the connectivity they need to work, learn and connect.

Read more about our industry efforts

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