22 APR 2025

How to speak fluent tech: ETP, IP, SSID and Ethernet vs Wi-Fi speed tests

Let’s face it, tech talk can sometime feel like deciphering a secret code. What even is an SSID? Is an IP something I need to call a plumber for? And why does everyone keep talking about External Termination Point? It’s about time we broke it down so you can get a handle on the tech lingo.

ETP (External Termination Point)

ETP stands for External Termination Point, and while it may sound technical, it’s essentially a connection point where your fibre line enters your home. It plays a crucial role in your broadband setup, allowing technicians to test and diagnose your connection before it reaches your ONT (Optical Network Terminal).

IP (Internet Protocol)

If your devices were people at a party, the Internet Protocol (IP) address would be their nametags. For example, an IP address might look like 192.168.1.1. It’s what lets your computer or smartphone shout, “Hey, send that data over here!” without getting mixed up with someone else. 

SSID (Service Set Identifier)

The Service Set Identifier or the SSID is simply the name of your Wi-Fi network, aka the name you see when you’re trying to mooch off your neighbours Wi-Fi. 

Skip the cliches and get creative with your Wi-Fi name. Name your network something like “DropItLikeItsHotspot”, “Loading…” or “PrettyFlyForAWi-Fi” to keep your neighbours entertained.

Also make sure you slap on a strong password to connect to your Wi-Fi. No one needs a random stranger bingeing Netflix on your dime. Your SSID and password can be changed within the Aginet or Deco app you use to set up your modem.

Find out how to download the Aginet app for the TP Link HX510 

Find out how to download the Deco app for the TP Link X55s 

Ethernet Speed Test vs. Wi-Fi Speed test

Speed tests are the fitness trackers of the internet world. They tell you how fast your connection is jogging along, but results can vary depending on whether you’re using Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

An Ethernet connection is great for speeds as it is consistently fast and reliable. It’s immune to interference from walls, microwaves or your neighbours Bluetooth speaker. Ethernet connections are perfect for gaming marathons and streaming without buffering tantrums. The downside of an Ethernet connection is that as well as looking ugly, you must be tethered to the modem by a cable and speed is reliant on cable quality. No, that ten year old cord from the junk box won’t cut it.

On the flip side Wi-Fi creates freedom! Take your laptop to the couch, bed or sitting outside in the sun. The downside of a Wi-Fi connection is that slower speeds occur when you are far from the modem. It can be prone to interference from walls or other devices.

If you feel like your Wi-Fi connection is crawling, plug in an Ethernet cable to see if the problem is your connection or just your modem throwing a tantrum.

Download speed refers to how fast data is pulled from the internet to your device—like when you download a Netflix episode to watch later offline. Upload speed, on the other hand, measures how quickly you send data back to the internet—say, if you record a perfect reaction video to the latest MAFS Australia episode and upload it to YouTube. A tool like Speedtest.net can help you check both speeds. For example, a typical Fibre plan averages around 300 Mbps for downloads and 100 Mbps for uploads, though actual speeds may vary depending on your plan, provider or environmental factors.

Now you are armed with the knowledge to navigate the wild world of networking (or at least fake it like a pro). Then again, who are we kidding? Maybe you’d rather slink back into blissful ignorance and let the tech wizards handle it.