Mobile Broadband Advantages And Disadvantages

What is mobile broadband?

Mobile broadband utilises 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile signals to deliver a reliable internet connection for homes and businesses, similar to smartphone connections through a SIM card-enabled device. It’s a viable alternative to fixed-line broadband, offering connectivity options for many households where fixed-line broadband isn’t viable or for businesses that need a backup connection. This blog explores how mobile broadband works, the many different types available in the market, and the advantages and disadvantages to help determine if it meets your internet needs.

How mobile broadband works:

Mobile technology applies the same technology that connects your smartphone to the Internet while you’re on the go. Your device will access 3G, 4G, or 5G data networks based on location. You can use USB dongles and mobile broadband routers to connect your device or directly insert a SIM card into your cell phone, laptop or tablet and use the mobile hotspot feature. The best method depends on your internet service provider, data plan and device. Before using mobile broadband services overseas, check with your provider regarding roaming fees and data restrictions. 

Different ways to access mobile broadband Internet:

• Mobile Dongle: A small USB stick which provides instant internet access once inserted into a laptop’s USB port. It can only be connected to one device. 
• MiFi Pocket WiFi: A small, portable, battery-operated device that functions like a home router that can be used anywhere. 
• Tethering: Some network providers offer tethering on their SIM plans, enabling you to use your smartphones as a mobile router to create a personal hotspot.
• Data-Only SIM: A SIM card that can be used in tablets and newer laptops with a SIM slot for mobile data without a phone number. 
• Mobile Broadband Router – A router dedicated to mobile broadband services ensuring fast connectivity, WiFi access, Ethernet ports to connect to your wired LAN network, and firewall and VPN services. 

View Our Range of Mobile Broadband Routers and Devices

How fast is mobile broadband?

The speed of your mobile broadband is affected by the package, location, and device used. Signal strength varies by region; some devices only work with specific networks. In 5G areas with a 5G plan, users can access ultra-fast mobile Internet speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, surpassing some fixed-line broadband packages. However, achieving top speeds may be limited until full 5G infrastructure is in place, as some providers have 5G plans that estimate a maximum download speed of around 100Mbps. 

4G is the previous generation of mobile network technology, though it is incorporated into the advancing 5G network. A 4G-enabled device with a suitable plan in the correct location could achieve a maximum bandwidth download speed of 150Mbps, although providers recommend a more practical speed of 30Mbps. In comparison, 3G offers a maximum speed of 7.2Mbps, yet connectivity may need to be stronger in areas with limited signal coverage. The download speed you receive is determined by your location and the device you are using. 

What is the difference between mobile broadband and Wi-Fi Connection?

Mobile broadband grants internet connectivity via cellular networks, whereas WiFi is a wireless local area network (LAN) enabling devices to link to a local router for internet access. Unlike WiFi, mobile broadband isn’t constrained by specific network locations. 

With advances in 5G technology what are the advantages and disadvantages to switching to a high-speed Internet Mobile broadband service over a fixed line internet connection?

Advantages

Delivery Time – With a mobile broadband connection, you no longer have to wait for an engineer to install a fixed landline or complete a site survey to determine how to route the internet service to your building. Order a mobile broadband router, insert a SIM card, and away you go, enabling you to get connected to the Internet within 24 hours.

Choice of Providers – With a mobile broadband connection using a multi-network SIM card or a dual SIM card router, you can choose the best mobile telecommunication network and signal for your location. If one mobile network is slow, you can automatically connect to a better mobile wireless broadband network to ensure the best speed and latency.

Support for a range of services – A mobile broadband service from Iotie can support a range of services, including a Fixed IP Address, VOIP, Videoconferencing, Cloud, and VPN (Virtual Private Network) services, to ensure you can securely connect to critical services wherever you are located.

Disadvantages:

Shortage of Mobile Broadband Providers – While a diverse range of mobile broadband packages are available at different price levels, the number of providers remains limited. This is especially noticeable compared to the higher number of traditional wired home broadband providers.

Download Limits – The download limits on mobile broadband deals are usually less generous than those on home broadband packages. However, they fare well compared to Internet access packages on mobile phones. Smartphones use the same 3G network as mobile broadband. Therefore, opting for a mobile broadband deal offers better value than choosing an Internet package for a mobile device. 

Download Speeds – Where you are located can affect your mobile broadband’s speed and bandwidth. A mobile signal is often better outside than within an office, as walls can interfere with a network signal. In addition, certain areas of the country may not have access to 4G or 5G networks, with 3G as the only viable option. 

Because of existing network constraints, 3G networks tend to be slower than traditional wired or cable broadband when downloading files. The highest download speed you may encounter is usually approximately 7.2Mb. Some providers plan to trial download speeds of 14.4Mb in major cities, so watch for further developments! 

If you would like further information on Iotie’s range of mobile broadband services please call us on +44(0)1635 953890, open up a chat or complete the contact form below.