Broadband access is taken for granted by most of us but there are still many individuals, communities and businesses who struggle to get connected. This is often because conventional broadband options aren’t always available outside of urban areas, with rural internet users being 3x as likely to have issues obtaining a decent broadband connection.
Fortunately, those unable to access cable or fibre optic broadband have more options than ever before. One of these options is 4G broadband – here’s everything you need to know about it.
What is 4G broadband?
4G broadband is a type of internet connection that is often used as an alternative to regular broadband. Avoiding phone lines entirely, it provides WiFi to households and businesses by using the 4G mobile network that is already broadcast all over the UK.
The name 4G refers to the fourth generation of cellular network technology. As you’d expect, each new generation is generally faster and more efficient than its predecessor. The most recent mobile network generation is 5G, but this is not yet widely available, and 4G is considered more than sufficient for most people’s needs.
Unlike fibre optic or cable modem internet, 4G broadband is wireless. This means it doesn’t require a fixed line, operating via airwaves instead.
What is a 4G router?
A 4G router is a small box that wirelessly routes a 4G signal through to your devices. It works in a similar way to a standard broadband router but connects to the internet via a SIM card, rather than an ethernet cable.
The 4G signal is received by the router, which transforms it into a WiFi signal. This WiFi signal is then broadcast around the home or business, ready for devices to link with as they would any other WiFi connection.
Because 4G routers do not need to be plugged into a fixed line, requiring only a power socket to function, they can easily be moved around the premises. As 4G signal strength can vary from room to room, this allows you to find and use the best connection point available.
How does 4G broadband work?
4G signal already exists across most areas of the UK, with coverage provided through a network of radio masts. Mobile internet providers offer connection to this network with a range of service plans, like your monthly phone contract.
4G broadband works in the same way – it connects devices to the UK’s 4G network, enabling internet access. The main difference between 4G broadband and 4G on your mobile phone is that your phone is portable and can therefore connect to 4G on the go, whereas 4G broadband requires a plug socket for the router.
Some 4G broadband plans include a ‘multi sim’, which allows the router access to the full spectrum of 4G providers in the UK. This way, the router can determine and connect to whichever network has the strongest signal strength in your area.
Once you’ve chosen your plan and have been sent your router, you simply plug it in to a power socket and let it connect to a network. Sometimes, if 4G signal in the area is unreliable, an antenna will also be installed on the building. The antenna helps to increase signal strength, providing a more seamless experience of using the internet.
The final step is for the router to transmit the internet connection around the property in the form of a WiFi signal. Your phone, laptop, TV and other devices can connect to this just as they would a normal WiFi network.
Is 4G broadband any good?
4G broadband is a good option for many homes and businesses struggling with their internet connection, but it’s not the perfect solution for everyone. Knowing both the advantages and disadvantages of 4G broadband means you can make up your own mind about whether it would be good for you.
Pros of 4G broadband
- Fast speeds – 4G broadband uses more powerful hardware than your mobile phone, so speeds are faster and comparable to other broadband options
- Widely available – 4G is available nearly everywhere, making it a great option for rural WiFi and other areas lacking cable infrastructure
- Plug and go – installation is quick and easy, requiring barely any setup
- Portable – some routers can be taken with you when you go away, meaning they can, for example, provide WiFi in a caravan
- Flexible packages – you’re not often tied in long term with 4G broadband, as flexible packages are more widely available than with other broadband types
Cons of 4G broadband
- Limited connection – usage is limited to where there is a solid 4G connection available
- More expensive – 4G broadband is generally a little more expensive than fixed-line broadband (but still cheaper than most mobile data plans)
- Stricter download limits – some people might struggle to get their needs met without an unlimited package, or there is a risk of going over the allowance
- Reliability – we all know that 4G coverage can be patchy in places, which is why this type of broadband is mostly used by those who struggle to access the internet through other means
- It’s not 5G – 5G is faster but doesn’t have as broad a coverage as 4G
Who could benefit from 4G broadband?
There are plenty of applications for 4G broadband, with many different reasons why people could benefit from it. Those living in rural areas are the obvious use case, with these communities often running into issues with fixed-line internet due to cables being poorly maintained, or not existing in the first place.
Those unable to get fixed-line broadband for other reasons, such as being in a new build home where the address is yet to be added to certain databases, can look to 4G broadband as a potential solution. Light internet users who are looking for a simple option could also benefit from 4G broadband, with its flexible packages and easy setup process.
People looking for a temporary WiFi solution, whether it be for an event, because of moving home, or another reason entirely, should also look into 4G broadband as an option.
4G broadband with Wave Internet
At Wave Internet, we have access to all the major networks so can offer the best 4G broadband connection available to you. Try our coverage checker to see what’s available in your area – you’ll also see our coverage for other types of internet, in case 4G isn’t the best option.
If you decide to go ahead, contact us with your details and one of our friendly team will get back in touch to explain what happens next. If you’d rather speak to someone now, please call us on 01254 377373 or drop us an email.
