Mobile Broadband Guide
Mobile broadband describes various different types of wireless high speed
Internet (or broadband) access and comes in different forms including 3G, 4G, LTE and WiMAX. Most current
mobile broadband providers use the 3G network
although some providers in several countries including the US are now
advertising 4G mobile broadband plans. Mobile broadband is typically offered by
the cellular or mobile networks and is a fast growing area for these companies.
Mobile broadband was initially provided to consumers via a PC card, but is now
provided by a mobile broadband device, sometimes called a ‘dongle’, which plugs
in to the USB port of your laptop or desktop.
Is mobile broadband the right option for me?
If you need wireless Internet access, mobile broadband is one possible method of
getting online. It won’t be the best option for everyone and there are other
options to consider.
The big advantage of mobile broadband is that you can get online with your
laptop anywhere with suitable mobile coverage. This access does come at a price
with most access working on either a prepaid basis or a contract which can run
up to 24 months. For those who only need access free Wi-Fi occasionally, where
it is available, may be a better option.
If you are considering replacing your home broadband (high speed Internet)
connection with mobile broadband, it’s worth noting that speeds are typically
much slower than fixed broadband connections and data allowances are typically
lower with higher costs for exceeding the allowance. This makes mobile broadband
less suitable for activities that require high speeds or download lots of data
such as downloading or watching movies online. The arrival of 4G mobile
broadband should help solve speed issues experienced with 3G, though
availability is limited at present.
What about using mobile broadband abroad?
If you use your mobile broadband connection abroad you will be using
international roaming in the same manner you would with a mobile phone. This
means that you will be connected to a local mobile network and you should be
able to use your connection in most countries. The downside is that data charges
for using mobile broadband abroad are usually very high.
If you intend to use your connection regularly, it is worth considering buying a
cheap prepaid mobile broadband device in the country you are visiting or making
use of free Wi-Fi if it is available. If you have a pay as you go (prepaid)
mobile broadband device these usually have international roaming disabled so
won’t work when abroad.
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