BSNL is the biggest internet provider in India. Like it or hate it, it’s the only ISP that is available in every corner of the country. Yes, Reliance Jio is coming soon and it has already made some big promises. But as of now, BSNL is the only option for us.
Now, since you are reading this article, there is a good chance that you an existing BSNL customer. So in the article, you will see everything, you need to know about BSNL. Like how to configure the Broadband connection, check the internet speed, usage, and how to pay bills online.
So let’s get started
Setup BSNL Broadband Connection
When you apply for a new broadband connection, you get an option to set up the connection on your own or use their support. You choose the second option, you have to pay installation fees. But you don’t have to.
In most cases, you need to have a BSNL landline connection to use broadband. But it depends on your locality, sometimes you can get the direct broadband line and taking landline is optional. The steps are the same for both cases.
Before we start, make sure you have a modem. You can buy it online or rent it from BSNL. Though, buying is a better option, if you are planning for the long term.
I suggest a Type2 WiFi modem which has both modem+router, build in one device. Apparently, I am using TP-link modem and it comes with everything you need to set up broadband for the first time. (review video here)
Ok, now let’s understand how it works. The main line coming to your house, carry the signal for both audio and internet. To separate (or demultiplex) these signal we use a device called ADSL splitter. It will split the signal into two parts. The first output goes to your telephone and the second output to the modem.
Physical setup of bsnl broadband internet
How to configure the modem
Now, once you have setup the physical connection, you are ready to configure modem settings. Usually, this is done by authorized BSNL technician during installation. But if you want to save some money and do it yourself, here is how it works.
1. Connect the modem and computer with a LAN cable. Usually, they supply this and other accessories with the modem.
2. Now open your browser and type 192.168.1.1
Username:Â admin
Password:Â admin
If this doesn’t work, then check the box, for the username and password or Google it.
Login to bsnl modem
4. Once you log in, look for a setup option. Usually, it’s the first option.
Now look for PPPoE option under internet connections. And then enter the username and password provided by your ISP. If you don’t have this login credentials, call the customer support on 1500 for the BSNL line, and ask for it.
Enter the VPI & VCI values provided by your ISP, usually, they are 0 & 35 respectively. And keep other things as default.
Entering username and password
Watch out this Video on BSNL broadband connectionÂ
How to check BSNL broadband speed?
There are many ways to check your broadband speed. For instance.  you can run a ping test or use speedtest website (more accurate).
However do note, if you have 1 Mb/s plan, then you will get 125 KB/s download speed, for 2mb/s you will 250 KB/s speed and so on.
You can find your current broadband plan by login to BSNL self-care. Or check out various BSNL broadband plans and map it with your bill.
How to check data usage in BSNL broadband?
If you don’t have an unlimited plan and want to check your monthly usage,  then register at Bsnl Selfcare Portal.
To get started head over to following websites and create an account. If you are not sure which zone you are in then look at the back of your BSNL bill.
- http://selfcare.sdc.bsnl.co.in for South Zone
- http://selfcare.ndc.bsnl.co.in for North Zone
- http://selfcare.wdc.bsnl.co.in for West Zone
- http://selfcare.edc.bsnl.co.in for EastZone
Related:Â Check Your Bsnl Broadband usage and Monthly Bills Online.
How to pay BSNL bill online?
This is the best feature of BSNL. If you are like me who hate standing in a queue, then use ‘BSNL Quick pay’ to pay bills online. Simply head over to the BSNL website > enter your number > submit. You will be redirected to the page where you can select your paying option. No registration required, all you need is a phone no.
Update: Websites like paytm and freecharge also support BSNL payment now. And I highly suggest you use them. They always have some offers running, which will help you save a little on your monthly bill. Google the coupons code.
How to upgrade the BSNLÂ broadband plan?
This is tricky. Although there is an option for plan change on self-care portal, when you click on it, it says “contact customer care”. When I call their customer care, I was told ‘ broadband plan can’t be changed online and I have to visit their branch’.
Next day, I visited their office and asked the concerned person for the plan change. He asked me, what plan I want, then some key on his computer and that’s it. The new plan got activate right then. Overall, it took me only 2 minutes.
However, if you don’t want to go to the office, there is a workaround for that as well.
A few years back, BSNL has launched a project called UDAAN. Under this, BSNL will offer all their service at your doorstep. All you have to is send them an SMS or file an online request. This service is great. However, very few people know about it.
So if you want a plan change, apply for new broadband, or anything simply head over to their udaan websites. And fill the online form and that’s it.
The website looks like a joke (CSS anyone!). But trust me it does work. Their representative will come to your home and get everything done.
Tips to Increase your broadband speed
Ok, Let me make this clear. There is no magic wand that will increase your internet speed. You only get what you paid for. So don’t expect 100KB/s speed on 512 Kb/s connection. You will only get 50-60 Kb/s. There is no way, you can get more than that.
However, if you are getting less than that, then you can optimize it. Â Try this —
1. Clear the temporary files and system cache.
2. If speed is extremely slow then try changing your DNS server to Google.
3. Use Google Chrome browser. It the best.
4. Check if have any program (like uTorrent) or windows update running in the background.
Wrapping Up
My first broadband was from BSNL then I switch to Sify broadband, then Reliance, then back to BSNL. I also used dongles like MTS and photon plus in between.
All of them have different plans, data cap, and coverage, etc. But one thing that is common with every ISP in India is – poor customer service.
We need a good internet network with good speed and no data cap. I have huge hopes from Reliance Jio. But let’s see how it goes.
Anyways, if you face any problem, then let me know in the comments below.
Edit 1
If you or your parents are government/PSU employee then avail 20% discount on your monthly BSNL bill. (Update- Now the discount is reduced to 10%)
