If you are building a wireless network, you may wonder what is an LTE router. The best routers out there can interface in a number of ways, but is an LTE router a good choice for modern consumers? Keep reading to find out.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- An LTE router, otherwise known as a 4G router or a MiFi router, is a device that uses a satellite connection to plug into the Internet, and not cable.
- These routers may lack the speed of a wired connection, more in line with a mobile hotspot, but speeds have been increasing since 5G has been gaining in popularity.
- A mobile router is great for portability, simple Internet access, and is generally easy to use, requiring only a SIM card to get started.
LTE Routers Explained
LTE routers are WiFi routers that use LTE cellular network satellite service to connect to the Internet. As such, they do not need to be plugged into a cable modem. What these modems lack in overall browsing speed, they more than make up for with portability and convenience. In a number of ways, an LTE router, otherwise known as a MiFi router or a 4G router, is similar to a gateway, if you are wondering the differences between a router and a gateway.
Insider Tip
These mobile routers have become a popular option for those seeking to cord-cut from their internet provider.
Benefits of LTE Routers
Relying on a satellite connection over a wired connection and Ethernet cable will impact your overall speed, so if you are wondering if tri-band routers are worth it over LTE routers, the former will offer increased speeds as they are plugged in. However, as 5G connections become more standard, the speed of these LTE routers has been steadily increasing and should approach wired devices in several years.
Here are some more benefits of choosing an LTE router.
Low Cost
LTE routers may cost a bit more upfront than standard wireless routers, but they significantly cut costs in the long run. Why is that? You don’t have to purchase a monthly cable Internet plan, relying exclusively on your satellite connection. In other words, you can wrap up the data used by your smartphone and related devices and port it over to your router for web browsing, with no Internet service provider (ISP) needed. Of course, this could backfire if you do not have an unlimited data plan, as surfing the web can rapidly eat up data.
Easy to Use
These MiFi routers are easy to use and highly portable, being as how they do not need to actually be plugged into anything. All you have to do is plug in a SIM card and you are good to go. Most of these devices also include a number of Ethernet ports, so you can plug-in devices that like a wired Internet connection, such as computers and gaming consoles. You won’t get as much speed as a truly wired Internet connection, but it will certainly do in a pinch.
F.A.Q.S
How is LTE home Internet installed?
Some companies offer home LTE-based Internet. Technicians come over and install a service hub and whatever WiFi routers that have been requested. After that, you’ll enroll in a mobile plan to ensure your WiFi devices connect online.
Can you use a phone SIM card in a router?
Yes. You can plug any SIM card into a mobile router to allow it to access a cellular network. After that, access your connected devices.
Can you cord-cut your Internet?
It’s possible, as many companies offer dedicated LTE service as an alternative to cable Internet for connected devices. A mobile router is a good way to cut the cord, whether you are streaming security cameras or simply surfing the web.
STAT: With the development of 4G technology, mobile data has become an important source for internet connections. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.tp-link.com/us/4g-wifi-router/
- https://www.minim.com/blog/modem-vs-router-vs-gateway-explained
- https://blog.netgear.com/blog/using-lte-as-a-primary-internet-source/r
- https://www.verizon.com/home/lte-home-internet/
- https://kb.netgear.com/31170/How-do-I-enable-the-SIM-PIN-security-feature-on-my-4G-LTE-modem-or-mobile-router
