Naked DSL Plans

What is Naked DSL?

Let’s break this down without going into too much nerdy jargon. 

Naked DSL is a type of internet connection that uses a phone line to connect to the web. It’s different from other types of DSL technology (like ADSL2+) because it doesn’t require an active phone line.¹ Basically, you can get an internet connection without a home phone service. 

Now, back in the day this was a big deal! However, since then, technologies like the NBN Broadband and 5G internet services have delivered similar benefits with much higher speeds. The NBN, having achieved such widespread coverage, is especially notable on this front. 

Can I still make calls without a phone line?

Besides using your mobile phone to make calls, people on Naked DSL connections could make phone calls using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). 

VoIP essentially lets people make phone calls using their internet connection.  You may have used VoIP’s without realising it.  Skype and Whatsapp are both popular types of VoIP services. While there are usually charges attached if you’re calling from a VoIP to a landline, they can be considerably cheaper than the monthly cost of a home phone.  And there’s normally no charge when calling from one VoIP app to another.² 

So, is VoIP still a thing now that Naked DSL is out of vogue? Definitely! VoIP services are supported by the NBN network and can be offered through a range of broadband plans.³ So, if you’re keen, it’s worth asking your provider whether they offer these services and what kind of rates might apply. 

Can I still get Naked DSL?

Naked DSL plans are pretty rare nowadays. Certainly, there are still some providers who offer ADSL plans in Australia, but these connections generally require an active phone line. 

A big draw of Naked DSL was that customers could save money by getting an internet connection without also needing to pay for a phone line. Now that this is no longer a unique selling point, there’s less demand for the product and less incentive for internet providers to offer it. Instead, the focus has shifted to new technologies with higher speeds and more advanced features.⁴ 

What are my alternatives to Naked DSL?

There are plenty of alternatives to Naked DSL, and most come with benefits that Naked DSL just can’t compete with.  Here’s just a few of the prime picks: 

• NBN broadband: Most Aussies get their internet through broadband plans that use the NBN network.⁵ Like the Naked DSL plans of old, these plans generally don’t require an active telephone line.⁶ NBN connections also have the potential⁷ to deliver much higher speeds than DSL connections⁸—though the precise speed also varies between internet plans. 
   
• Wireless broadband: As the name suggests, wireless broadband can connect to the internet wirelessly. Some plans connect to mobile 4G and 5G networks while others access the NBN network through antennae (instead of cable).⁹ Like ‘fixed-line’ NBN services, these connections also deliver high speed internet services. 
   
• Satellite Internet: A relatively new technology, satellite internet services can help people in remote or regional areas get connected to the web.¹⁰ The Sky Muster satellite service allows customers to connect to the NBN network via two state of the art satellites.¹¹ 

Where can I compare internet plans?

If you’re looking for a fast and cost-effective alternative to Naked DSL, then you’ve come to the right place. iSelect has partnered with CIMET to help you compare a range of internet plans and providers*. To start comparing you can hop online or call our friendly team on 13 19 20.

^{Sources:
1 Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) - Understanding your options for broadband connection
2 Federal Communications Commission (fcc.gov) - Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
3 NBN Co - Voice services
4 itnews - Telstra broaches ADSL's 'end of life'
5 Australian Government | ACMA - Communications and media in Australia series: How we use the internet | Executive summary and key findings (Page 1)
6 Tangerine - Do I need to keep a phone line to get NBN?
7 Australian Competition & Consumer Commission - Broadband performance data
8 Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) - Understanding your options for broadband connection
9 Federal Communications Commission - Types of Broadband Connections
10 As above
11 NBN - Sky Muster satellite service explained}