What router do you get with NOW Broadband?
NOW Broadband offers a different selection of unlimited packages from 75Mb to 300Mb (full fibre broadband).
All new customers will receive the Sky Broadband Hub router to provide fast fixed line and wireless speeds. This replaces the older NOW Broadband Hub 2.
NOW Broadband Wi-Fi router: in summary
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The Sky Broadband Hub is the same device offers to Sky customers and delivers decent upload and download speeds.
As a NOW Broadband customer, you also have the option to upgrade to Sky WiFi Max (Wi-Fi 6) if you live in a fibre area.
Sky Broadband Hub specifications
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NOW Hub Two specifications (legacy router)
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Do I get to keep my NOW Broadband Hub after my contract is over?
NOW Broadband requests that you return all equipment once your contract is over.
NOW isn't specific about charges but the fee for non-return of a Sky Broadband Hub is ‘up to £53’, so expect to be charged similar.
You’ll be provided with a free returns label. Simply package up your equipment, attach the label and send it back.
Is a Now Broadband Hub easy to set up?
Yes, the Hub included with NOW Broadband packages is easy to set up. All you have to do is connect the Hub to the BT wall socket using the cable included in the box.
Power it on and use Ethernet or wireless to connect your devices.
Here’s a quick overview of how to set everything up:
- Check the activation date on the box. Don’t try to set it up before that date, as it won’t work.
- Place the router close to the BT Openreach wall socket and plug it in to your landline. Plug the other end of the cable into the purple port on the back of your Hub.
- Plug the Hub into the mains using the supplied plug and power it on. You should see lights appear on the front.
- Wait a little while for it to synchronise with the network before doing anything else. Once all lights are green, you’re ready to connect.
- Connect using wireless or cable and follow these instructions.
- The Wi-Fi password will be on the back of the Hub or on a card that came with it.
How can I improve the Wi-Fi signal of my NOW Broadband Hub?
There are several ways you can improve the signal of the NOW Broadband Hub.
Try one or all of these to improve signal strength in your home:
Place the router close to the centre of your home – Wi-Fi signals radiate out in 360 degrees. The closer to the middle of the property you place the Hub, the better the coverage.
Avoid placing it next to large appliances – Large household appliances emit electromagnetic interference, which can interrupt wireless signals. Place your router away from appliances for the strongest signal.
Check your channels – Wireless uses channels to divide frequencies and some channels are busier than others. Use a free Wi-Fi analyser app to check which channels are busiest in your home and switch to the quietest channel. You can change the wireless channel in the router settings.
Use a repeater – Wi-Fi repeaters are separate pieces of hardware that boost wireless signal. They often plug into a wall socket and join your network, so they can push the signal further.
Use a mesh kit – A mesh kit works similarly to a repeater, only it creates a single, stronger wireless network. A mesh kit is pricier but provides a stronger signal.
Use a powerline adapter – A powerline adapter uses two wall plugs and your home’s electrical wiring to create a network. One end goes close to the router and connects via cable. The other end can be placed wherever you need it and connect to a desktop or laptop.
For more tips, read our guides:
What’s the password for a NOW Broadband router?
Sky provides unique usernames and passwords for Sky Broadband Hubs distributed to NOW Broadband customers, and prints them on a card included with the device.
You’ll need to keep the card safe even if you change the login. If you have to reset your router for any reason, you’ll need the card to log in again.
Is the router included with NOW Broadband good value for money?
Yes, the Hubs are good value for money as they are provided free of charge with every NOW Broadband contract. There is no extra charge.
What are the standout features of the Sky Broadband Hub included with NOW Broadband?
The Sky Broadband Hub supports Wi-Fi 5 as default and provides decent signal strength throughout most types of home.
The Hub also features smart channel selection. It scans Wi-Fi channels in your home and automatically selects the strongest one.
This makes the Hub a set and forget device.
NOW Broadband Hub Two pros and cons
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Can I keep my NOW Broadband Hub if I move or downgrade my broadband?
Yes, you can keep your Hub if you move or downgrade your package, as long as you remain a customer.
There is no mention of having to sign up for a new contract when moving home, but you will have to have a new contract if you downgrade your package.
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Can I use my own router with NOW Broadband?
You may find it difficult to use your own router with NOW because of how it’s configured.
If you have a voice line as part of your package, you may lose access if you use a different router.
Plus, Sky has a smart authentication system that many routers cannot interact with.
Some users have said Asus and Netgear routers can be made to work with extra configuration, though.
Expert Summary
The Sky Broadband Hub provided to new NOW Broadband customers is a decent wireless router that delivers a reliable internet connection.
New NOW Broadband customers receive the same router as those signed up to Sky Broadband service. It works well, is easy to use and delivers good broadband speeds.
The device is well-built, reliable and provides a dependable wireless signal throughout most types of home.
Setup is straightforward and is set and forget for most users. Wireless signal strength is credible, and the box itself is small enough to fit almost anywhere.
Overall, we think the Sky Broadband Hub is a good router. It won’t satisfy power users but should be more than enough for everyone else.
Interested in finding out more about NOW? Check out our full NOW Broadband review.
As they use the same router, you may also find it useful to read our Sky Broadband router round-up for more information on the Hub.
How do these routers offerings square up against other broadband providers? Find out with these other router round-ups: