Aussie gov't tells volunteers to throw out thousands of functioning test routers
Summary
The Australian government’s broadband testing program, run by the ACCC and using SamKnows routers, ended on June 30, 2026. After the program finished, thousands of these routers were disabled, even though many still work and could be reused.Key Facts
- The Measuring Broadband Australia (MBA) program started in 2020 to test internet speeds using SamKnows routers given to volunteers.
- The program focused on fixed-line broadband services over Australia’s NBN network and other access networks.
- After June 30, 2026, the routers were “bricked,” meaning they were disabled and stopped collecting data.
- Volunteers were told their accounts would be closed and their data deleted after the program ended.
- Some volunteers pointed out the routers still function and can be reused by installing open-source software called OpenWRT.
- Reusing the routers could prevent unnecessary electronic waste, but the government encouraged volunteers to dispose of the devices responsibly instead.
- About 4,000 routers were expected to be distributed during the program, with over 2,600 given out by late 2020.
- A similar program in the US distributed 9,000 routers in 2011, but it is unknown what happened to those devices afterward.
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