iiNet BoB, Product Review, Christmas Gift, voip, broadband, wireless

iiNet’s BoB – Product Review

iiNet’s latest product BoB (Broadband in a Box.. don’t ask) offers customers a device which combines your home network with your telephone. The device itself looks like a phone Darth Vader would have at home. BoB provides you with 4 Ethernet ports but also allows up to 16 wireless devices to connect to it. BoB also acts as a phone which can support your standard PSTN phone line or a VoIP service. You can also use the two USB 2.0 ports to charge your USB devices such as a mobile phone, Ipod or an external storage device.

Plans	24 Month Contract	No Contract
BoB 4-port wireless VOIP router with handset	$269	$369
BoB 4-port wireless VOIP router, without handset	$209	$309
additional BoB handset (supports up to 5 handsets)	$69	$69

What did I like about BoB?

It’s a very stylish looking device that’s for sure with its sleek and smooth design. The ability to combine your router and phone is fantastic as it’ll mean less clutter. The advantage of having a VoIP service is that you really cut down on your phone bill as you’re simply using your broadband connection to make your phone calls. iiNet can bring over your existing number so people calling in won’t notice any difference, only you will… on your bill that is. Bundle this with one of iiNet’s Naked DSL plans and you completely remove your dependency on a land line at all.

The connectivity on BoB is wonderful, you can connect up to 4 computers, laptops or gaming consoles using the ethernet ports at the back. Alternatively you can connect up to 16 wireless devices utilising BoB’s 802.11g and speeds of up to 300Mbps. There are two high speed USB 2.0 ports on the side of BoB allowing you to connect your Ipod or mobile phone to charge. If you keep your BoB on your desk, say goodbye to the days you have to bend underneath your desk to connect the USB cable to the front or worse; back, of your computer tower (the back of my head will be thankful for that). You can have up to 5 additional handsets; each with their own charging cradle, around the house. You can connect any DECT compatible handsets to BoB as well.

What did I didn’t like about BoB?

BoB is exclusive to iiNet, so in order to use this you must switch over or be an existing customer of iiNet. The USB port includes 3g dongle support, just not right now. You’ll have to wait for firmware upgrades in the future before you can connect your mobile broadband adapter. There have been some initial reports of wireless connections dropping out and VoIP not working, however these issues have been resolved by updating the firmware. If you plan on combining this with a Naked DSL plan, one thing you need to be aware of is that uploads do count towards your monthly quota. Unless you’re planning on uploading massive amounts of data, this won’t be an issue.

Overall what are my thoughts on BoB?

Well if you’re thinking of churning to one of iiNet’s broadband plans or getting rid of your phone line (see iiNet’s Naked DSL plans) getting BoB would be a logical step. If you want an iiNet Broadband plan or Naked DSL plan to go with your BoB but aren’t quite too sure what you need, check out iiNet’s Help Page. From a cost saving point of view, using VoIP for your calls will definately save you money in the long run, if you opt to churn to Naked DSL you’ll also be saving yourself phone line rental as well. From a practical point of view, having one device for all your connectivity needs is definate big plus! You can run your home network through BoB, share files by connecting an external storage device to BoB, charge your Ipod or mobile phone, use your Internet connection from anywhere in the house and make or receive calls.

So the next question is, how much. iiNet offers BoB with or without the handset. You can opt for a 24 month contract with with a handset for $269 or without one for $209. Should you decide you don’t want to be locked in a contract, BoB with a handset will set you back $369 or $309 without a handset. Additional handsets can be purchased for $69 each.

Made up your mind about BoB? Simply head over to iiNet’s website and sign up today!