Upgrading Your Cradlepoint Router from 4G to 5G: When and Why?

As technology continues to advance, so do our demands for faster speeds and better performance. One significant leap in the world of wireless connectivity is the transition from 4G LTE to 5G networks. In this article, we’ll explore when and why you might want to consider upgrading your Cradlepoint router from 4G LTE to 5G. We’ll also focus on models with removable modems that make the process relatively straightforward.

Understanding 4G LTE and 5G

Before we delve into the reasons for upgrading, let’s briefly understand the key differences between 4G LTE and 5G networks. 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the fourth generation of wireless technology, offering impressive data speeds and low latency compared to its predecessors. It has been adopted globally and has served as the backbone for mobile connectivity in various applications.

On the other hand, 5G, the fifth generation of wireless technology, promises significantly faster speeds, reduced latency, increased capacity, and improved reliability. It has the potential to revolutionize various industries, including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and smart cities, by enabling new technologies such as autonomous vehicles, IoT devices, and virtual reality applications.

Why Upgrade to 5G?

5G technology brings several advancements that make it superior to 4G LTE in terms of speed, latency, and capacity. One key aspect is the utilization of higher frequency bands, such as millimeter waves (mmWave). These bands offer significantly larger bandwidth compared to the lower frequency bands used in 4G LTE. This increased bandwidth allows for faster data transmission, enabling 5G networks to achieve download and upload speeds of several gigabits per second. 

Furthermore, 5G incorporates advanced antenna technologies, such as massive MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) and beamforming, which optimize signal transmission and reception. These techniques enhance spectrum efficiency by allowing the network to serve multiple users simultaneously with improved signal quality and coverage. As a result, 5G networks can deliver lower latency, reducing the delay in data transfer and enabling real-time applications to operate seamlessly. 

Additionally, the increased capacity of 5G networks allows for a greater number of devices to connect simultaneously. This supports the growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and enables a more connected and efficient ecosystem. Overall, these advancements in 5G technology contribute to the improved speed, lower latency, and increased capacity, providing a transformative wireless experience for users and opening up possibilities for new applications and services.

When You Might Upgrade from 4G LTE to 5G

  • Need for Higher Data Speeds: If your business or personal requirements demand faster download and upload speeds, upgrading to 5G can be a game-changer. Some 5G networks are capable of delivering speeds up to 10 Gbps. With that much bandwidth you can experience near-instantaneous file transfers, smoother video conferencing, and faster access to cloud-based applications. Of course, in the real world you may not see that kind of speed, but 5G can still be faster than 4G LTE.
  • Latency-Critical Applications: If you rely on real-time applications that require minimal latency, such as video streaming, online gaming, or remote collaboration, 5G’s significantly lower latency can greatly enhance your experience. The reduced delay in data transmission allows for smoother, more responsive interactions.
  • Increased Network Capacity: As more devices connect to the internet and the demand for bandwidth grows, 5G’s improved network capacity becomes increasingly important. Upgrading to 5G enables your Cradlepoint router to handle a larger number of connected devices simultaneously, ensuring a seamless experience for all users.
  • Future-Proofing Your Network: Technology is continually evolving, and staying ahead of the curve can provide a competitive advantage. Upgrading to 5G future-proofs your network infrastructure, allowing you to leverage upcoming technologies and services that rely on the enhanced capabilities of 5G networks. 

Benefits of a Cradlepoint Router with Removable Modems

If you’re looking for a cellular router, but are not yet ready for 5G, consider a Cradlepoint router model that features a removable modem. When you are finally ready, the upgrade process from 4G LTE to 5G is relatively straightforward. Instead of replacing the entire router, you can simply swap out the modem module while keeping your existing router in place. This offers several benefits:

  • Cost-Effective Solution: Swapping the modem module instead of replacing the entire router helps minimize costs. You may even be able to keep your existing data plan, which can also potentially save you money.
  • Time-Saving and Minimal Disruption: With a removable modem, the upgrade process can be completed quickly, minimizing network downtime and reducing disruption to your operations. You can seamlessly transition from 4G LTE to 5G without extensive reconfigurations or setup.
  • Compatibility with Existing Infrastructure: By retaining your existing router, you can continue to leverage its features and configurations seamlessly. This ensures compatibility with your current network infrastructure, avoiding the need for extensive adjustments or retraining.

To Upgrade, or Not to Upgrade

Upgrading your Cradlepoint router from 4G LTE to 5G can offer a host of benefits, including faster speeds, lower latency, increased network capacity, and future-proofing your network infrastructure. However, for those not yet ready, Cradlepoint routers with removable modems might be the answer for their convenience and cost-effectiveness. If and when you decide to embrace 5G, the experts at 5Gstore.com are readily available to lend their expertise and help you navigate the intricate world of 5G technology. 

Adjust the 4G/5G Band Selection to Increase Performance on Your Cradlepoint or Peplink

Relying on wired Internet services is becoming a thing of the past as more and more people turn to wireless connectivity options for their internet needs. The popularity of 4G and 5G cellular connections is on the rise due to their wide availability, comparable bandwidth speeds, and lower cost service plans. In fact, many users now use their cell phones to verify connectivity and speeds at their location, which has led to an increased demand for reliable and efficient cellular modems and routers.

Selecting a Cellular Modem/ Router 

When it comes to selecting a cellular modem or router, there are several factors that need to be taken into consideration. One of the first things to determine is the cellular provider you plan to use. Different providers may have varying coverage areas, so it’s important to choose a modem or router that is compatible with the network of your chosen provider. Additionally, you need to assess the cellular signal strength at your location to determine whether you need an indoor router or an outdoor solution for better reception.

The emergence of 5G technology has added another layer of complexity to the decision-making process. If you require a 5G solution, you need to ensure that the modem or router you select supports 5G connectivity. However, if 5G is not necessary for your needs, you can opt for a 4G LTE modem that suits your requirements. It’s worth noting that LTE modems are classified into different categories, known as Cat numbers, which indicate the supported frequency bands and capable bandwidth speeds. Generally, a higher category modem can provide better performance by supporting more frequencies.

Troubleshooting Performance Differences

Once you have chosen a cellular modem or router that meets your criteria, it’s time to address any performance differences you may encounter. It’s possible that even with a modem that is comparable to or better than your existing device, you might find that the performance is worse. In such cases, troubleshooting becomes essential.

Start by checking the frequency band(s) your existing cellular device is connecting to. Different frequency bands have varying rates and distances of travel, which can affect the signal strength and bandwidth speed you receive. Some cellular devices, particularly those with Cat 6 modems or higher, are capable of connecting to multiple frequency bands simultaneously. This allows the modem to receive more bandwidth from the cell tower compared to connecting to just one band.

The Solution

Fortunately, there is a solution to address performance issues and optimize your cellular connectivity. Certain routers, such as those offered by Peplink and Cradlepoint, not only provide signal and band details but also offer frequency band control. With these routers, you can manually disable certain frequency bands, which forces the modem to connect to different bands. Although this process may take some time, especially if your existing device does not provide band details, it can be worth the effort. In some cases, the signal strength on these alternative bands may be weaker than what the modem selects automatically. However, even with a weaker signal, you can generally achieve download speeds of over 30 Mbps or higher.

Moving Forward

When you’re in the market for a cellular modem or router that is comparable to your existing device or another cellular device, it’s crucial to consider these factors. It’s also important to note that even if you don’t have a device for direct comparison, routers like Peplink or Cradlepoint can provide extensive band testing capabilities, allowing you to fine-tune your modem’s performance for the best possible results. With the right cellular modem or router and the ability to control frequency bands, you can optimize your wireless internet experience and enjoy reliable connectivity wherever you go.

Already Have a Peplink or Cradlepoint? 

Check out our how to videos on band selection settings:

Peplink instructions
Cradlepoint instructions

Looking for a more simplified explanation of when and why you might adjust cellular frequency bands? Check out our article, How to Get the Best Performance from Your Cradlepoint or Peplink Router.

DISH Wireless Expands Their 5G Network to 70% of the U.S.

DISH Wireless has reached a significant milestone in the U.S. telecom industry by providing 5G broadband service to over 70 percent of the American population. This grants more than 240 million people access to cutting-edge connectivity technology. The accomplishment demonstrates DISH’s ability to design, construct, and deploy a groundbreaking 5G network within just three years. Furthermore, DISH has fulfilled all of its commitments to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as of June 14, 2023, including the launch of over 15,000 5G sites.

Dave Mayo, the executive vice president of Network Development at DISH Wireless, expressed gratitude for the tireless efforts of their teams in establishing the world’s first and only 5G cloud-native Open RAN network. He also acknowledged the continuous support and collaboration of their partners as DISH takes the lead in Open RAN deployment.

DISH has taken a pioneering step as the first wireless service provider in the U.S. to introduce 5G voice service, known as voice over new radio (VoNR). After its initial deployment in Las Vegas last year, DISH has expanded VoNR functionality to other markets. Presently, the VoNR service is accessible to over 70 million individuals across the country through Boost Mobile and Boost Infinite. DISH intends to expand the availability of VoNR service as they optimize their network for this advanced voice technology.

John Swieringa, the president and chief operating officer of DISH Wireless, emphasized the company’s crucial role in transforming America’s wireless infrastructure and global communication through their leadership in Open RAN technology. Swieringa mentioned the significant progress made in the network build-out and the forthcoming focus on generating revenue through retail and enterprise growth. As more markets across the nation offer the DISH 5G network for voice, text, and data services, DISH anticipates reaping the benefits of owner economics.

Customers can access the DISH 5G broadband network through Project Genesis, which allows them to provide valuable feedback on network performance, benefiting all retail wireless users. This opportunity is available to eligible individuals within the 70 percent coverage area. To sign up for Project Genesis unlimited data, voice, and text services, individuals can visit Genesis5G.com. Additionally, Project Genesis subscribers can now enjoy the Motorola edge+ 2023 device, equipped with three carrier aggregation supporting Bands 29, 66, 70, and 712.

The DISH 5G network is also accessible to Boost Mobile and Boost Infinite subscribers in over 50 markets nationwide, provided they own or purchase a device compatible with the network. Throughout the year, DISH will continue to expand availability to more markets and introduce network-compatible devices for the DISH 5G network.

DISH intends to submit its FCC buildout report no later than July 14, 2023.

For a comprehensive list of DISH’s wireless partners, please visit DISHWireless.com/home.

Reducing Truck Rolls with the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch

In the world of network infrastructure management, truck rolls have long been a necessary but costly and complex part of the process. These onsite visits by technicians can quickly become expensive, time-consuming, and resource-intensive. However, with the advent of innovative technologies like the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch, the game is changing. This blog post explores the significant benefits of the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch in reducing and eliminating truck rolls through its advanced remote monitoring and control capabilities.

The Cost of Truck Rolls

Truck rolls refer to the dispatching of technicians to physically troubleshoot, maintain, or repair network equipment on-site. These visits often involve substantial expenses such as travel costs, labor fees, equipment replacement, and, most importantly, valuable time. Moreover, complex network issues can sometimes necessitate multiple truck rolls, further escalating the expenditure and delay in problem resolution. Also consider hard to reach locations, such as those only accessible by helicopter. These visits can often cost thousands of dollars. 

The Complexity of Truck Rolls

Truck rolls are often required due to the need for manual intervention, such as power cycling equipment to resolve issues remotely. These interventions are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly when dealing with geographically dispersed equipment. Coordinating schedules, dispatching technicians, and ensuring their availability all add to the complexity and delay in problem resolution.

Introducing the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch

The 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch offers a game-changing solution to reduce the cost and complexity of truck rolls. This innovative device allows network administrators and technicians to remotely monitor and control power outlets and connected devices in real-time. By integrating this switch into network infrastructure, organizations can eliminate the need for physical intervention in many situations, saving both time and money.

Remote Monitoring and Control Capabilities

The Remote Power IP Switch empowers network administrators with an intuitive web interface that provides real-time status updates on connected devices, as well as a mobile application you can use to remotely monitor and control the device from anywhere. By remotely monitoring this information, administrators can identify potential issues before they escalate into costly network failures.

One of the key features of the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch is its ability to control power outlets remotely. This means administrators can power cycle devices, initiate reboots, or perform maintenance tasks without the need for an on-site visit. This feature alone eliminates a significant number of truck rolls that were previously required solely for power cycling purposes.

Benefits of the 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch

  • Cost Reduction: By minimizing or eliminating truck rolls, organizations can significantly reduce travel expenses, labor costs, and equipment replacement costs. The Remote Power IP Switch allows administrators to resolve issues remotely, improving operational efficiency and saving valuable resources. Just check out our savings calculator to see how much you can save (example shown below).
  • Time Savings: With remote monitoring and control capabilities, administrators can quickly diagnose and troubleshoot network issues without the delay associated with scheduling and dispatching technicians. This enables faster problem resolution, reducing network downtime and improving customer satisfaction.
  • Enhanced Flexibility: The Remote Power IP Switch provides administrators with unparalleled flexibility in managing network infrastructure. Whether it’s managing equipment in remote locations or responding to urgent issues outside regular business hours, the switch ensures administrators have control at their fingertips, eliminating unnecessary delays.

The 5Gstore Remote Power IP Switch is a powerful tool that revolutionizes network infrastructure management by reducing the cost and complexity associated with truck rolls. By enabling remote monitoring and control of power outlets and connected devices, organizations can save substantial amounts of time and money. 

The switch’s ability to eliminate the need for physical intervention in many cases streamlines operations, enhances flexibility, and improves overall network reliability. Embracing such innovative technologies is a forward-thinking approach that brings numerous benefits to businesses. This can enable them to operate more efficiently in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

5Gstore.com: A Top-Quality Store on Google

Online shopping has become the go-to method for many consumers, especially over the past few years. With the convenience and accessibility it offers, customers rely heavily on trustworthy online retailers to fulfill their needs. Among the numerous online stores available, 5Gstore.com has emerged as a reliable destination for tech enthusiasts seeking top-quality products and an exceptional shopping experience. Recently, the store received the prestigious “Top Quality Store” badge from Google, solidifying its reputation as a trusted online retailer in the United States.

A Google Trusted Store

For some time, 5Gstore.com has maintained a strong presence on Google as a trusted store. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and a wide range of cutting-edge tech products, they have garnered a loyal customer base. The store’s consistent positive feedback, excellent ratings, and an unwavering dedication to providing a seamless shopping experience have contributed to its growing popularity.

Earning the “Top Quality Store” Badge

The “Top Quality Store” badge awarded to 5Gstore.com by Google is a significant achievement. This accolade is bestowed upon online retailers that consistently deliver a positive shopping experience and maintain excellent ratings across Google’s shopping experience metrics. By meeting and exceeding these standards, 5Gstore.com has proven its commitment to customer satisfaction and product quality.

Positive Shopping Experience

One of the key factors that contributed to 5Gstore.com earning the “Top Quality Store” badge is the consistently positive shopping experience they provide. The store’s website offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy for customers to navigate and find the products they need. The intuitive search functionality and well-organized categories enable customers to locate their desired items quickly.

Moreover, 5Gstore.com places great emphasis on the accuracy and transparency of product information. Detailed descriptions, specifications, and high-resolution images help customers make informed purchasing decisions. Clear pricing, including any discounts or promotions, is prominently displayed, ensuring transparency and eliminating any confusion.

Excellent Customer Service

Exceptional customer service is another hallmark of 5Gstore.com. They prioritize customer satisfaction and go the extra mile to address any concerns or inquiries promptly. Whether through email, live chat, or phone support, their knowledgeable and friendly customer service team ensures that customers receive the assistance they need.

Fast and Reliable Shipping

In addition to the outstanding shopping experience, 5Gstore.com takes pride in their swift and reliable shipping process. They understand the importance of timely delivery, particularly for customers eagerly awaiting their new tech gadgets. By partnering with reputable shipping carriers, 5Gstore.com ensures that orders are processed promptly and reach customers in a timely manner. Their efficient logistics and order fulfillment system contribute to the overall positive experience for shoppers.

Continuous Improvement

Earning the “Top Quality Store” badge is not the end of the journey for 5Gstore.com. They strive for ongoing improvement, aiming to exceed customer expectations consistently. By actively seeking customer feedback and implementing necessary changes based on their suggestions, 5Gstore.com ensures that their store remains a top choice for tech enthusiasts.

How to Get the Best Performance from Your Cradlepoint or Peplink Router

Wired Internet services are becoming outdated. Instead, many people now prefer using 4G and 5G cellular connections for their internet needs. These cellular connections are popular because they are widely available, have similar speeds to wired connections, and are often cheaper. People often use their cell phones to check the internet speed and connectivity at their location. But here’s the problem: not all cell phones or cellular modems support the same frequencies and speeds.

When you’re looking to buy a cellular modem or router, there are a few things to think about. First, which cellular provider will you use? It’s important to know because different providers have different coverage areas. You also need to consider where you get the best cellular signal at your location. This will help you decide if you need an indoor router or an outdoor solution. Do you need 5G, or will a 4G LTE modem be enough? There are different types of LTE modems, and they vary in the frequencies they support and the speeds they can handle. The higher the “Cat” (category) number, the more frequencies it supports, and the better it performs.

Now, let’s say you’ve got a modem that’s just as good as, or even better than, your cell phone or other device. But when you test the new modem, you find that it’s actually worse than what you had before. What do you do then?

First, check if your existing device can tell you the frequency bands it’s connecting to. Different frequencies travel at different speeds and distances, which affects the signal and speed you get. If your device has a Cat 6 modem or higher (including 5G modems), it can connect to multiple frequency bands at once. This means it gets more bandwidth from the cell tower compared to connecting to just one band.

Luckily, there’s a solution to improve your modem’s performance. Some routers, like those made by Peplink and Cradlepoint, not only show you the signal and band details but also let you control the frequency bands. This means you can manually disable certain bands and force the modem to connect to different ones (example below).

It might take some time, especially if your current device doesn’t provide band details, but it can be worth it. Sometimes, the signal on these other bands is weaker than what the modem selects automatically. However, even with a weaker signal, you can usually achieve download speeds of 30 Mbps or higher. This is typically more than enough to do most activities on the Internet. 

So, when you’re looking for a cellular modem or router that’s similar to your current device, keep these things in mind. Even if you don’t have anything to compare it to, consider getting a Peplink or Cradlepoint router if you’re willing to do some band testing to get the best performance. These routers can help you optimize your internet experience and get a reliable connection wherever you are.

Looking for more detailed information on this subject, including instructions? Check out our article, Adjust the 4G/5G Band Selection to Increase Performance on Your Cradlepoint or Peplink.

Spring Sales Updates from Peplink

With the many recent updates from Peplink, we wanted to summarize them all in one place. Updates include volume pricing, a trade-in program, a sales incentive, and a price reduction. Read on for more details!

Volume Pricing Promotion for Resellers

(May 16th – July 15th, 2023)

The Transit series is making a comeback. It’s been the go to for mobile applications like RVs and boats, but has also become quite popular with business users alike. To encourage partners to try out the newest version of the Transit Duo Pro, they are introducing volume pricing. 

The Transit Duo Pro features faster Wi-Fi and more power input options. It is a versatile device ready to be deployed in any application that requires reliable connectivity.

Contact the 5Gstore sales team to learn more about the Transit Duo Pro’s volume pricing.

Trade-In Program for BR2 Pro

(May 16th – July 15th, 2023)

If you are considering replacing your current cellular router, we have exciting news for you! Peplink is thrilled to announce a new trade-in program, designed to make your router upgrade even more appealing. With the BR2 Pro Trade-In Program, you can now enjoy the power of dual 5G capabilities, enhanced Wi-Fi, and a whopping $400 discount. 

BR1 Mini Reseller Sales Incentive

(April 1st – September 30th, 2023)

Some certified Peplink Reseller Sales Reps can earn incentive bonuses when selling eligible BR1 Mini devices. This promotion may be extended beyond the time limit provided above depending on the success. It cannot be combined with any other promotional offer. Check with the team at 5Gstore for details and pricing discounts you may be eligible for today! 

BR1 Mini CAT 7 Price Reduction

Peplink is excited to announce a major price reduction of the powerful BR1 Mini CAT 7! As of May 12, 2023, the new MSRP is $399 (an $80 price drop).

The BR1 Mini CAT 7 fits a wide range of applications. This includes mobile and IoT applications, POS failover, and remote work, just to name a few. Visit 5Gstore today to learn more about this versatile device.

Save Big on the BR1 Pro Cat-20 LTE

The Peplink MAX BR1 Pro Cat-20 LTE, now priced at $699 (originally $849), presents a compelling option for upgrading from the BR1 Mini. This advanced device not only supports high Ethernet WAN throughput of up to 2 Gbps but also incorporates cutting-edge features like WiFi 6 and WiFi as WAN in addition to its robust LTE modem. With these remarkable capabilities, the BR1 Pro Cat-20 LTE caters to users who do not require 5G connectivity. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience enhanced performance with the BR1 Pro Cat-20 LTE.

Introducing Peplink’s BR2 Pro Trade-In Program: Upgrade Your Cellular Router and Save!

Are you considering replacing your current cellular router? Well, we have exciting news for you! Peplink is thrilled to announce a new trade-in program, designed to make your router upgrade even more appealing. With the BR2 Pro Trade-In Program, you can now enjoy the power of dual 5G capabilities, enhanced Wi-Fi, and a whopping $400 discount. All you need to do is purchase the BR2 Pro.

Starting from May 16, 2023, this limited-time, 60-day offer is exclusively available for customers in the US region. If you’re ready to take advantage of this deal, read on to learn more about how the trade-in program works and the benefits it offers.

How Does the Trade-In Program Work?

Replacing a Competing Router

If you’re currently using a cellular router from any brand and wish to make the switch to the Peplink BR2 Pro, you’re eligible for a $400 discount. This means you can get your hands on the BR2 Pro for the special end-user price of $2499. Just decommission your old device or send it in to be recycled and you may proceed with the BR2 Pro 5G purchase. 

Replacing a Peplink Device

As a token of Peplink’s appreciation for your loyalty, if you already own a Peplink router and want to upgrade to the BR2 Pro, you’ll also receive a $400 discount. The best part is, you get to keep your existing Peplink router, making this a win-win situation for you.

Keeping the Process Simple

Peplink understands that returning the traded-in router can be inconvenient. That’s why they’ve made it hassle-free. Instead of physically sending back the non-Peplink unit, they only require you to provide a picture of the destroyed device (including the serial number). This way, you can enjoy a smooth upgrade process.

If you prefer to send back the traded-in unit, please coordinate with your reseller to make the necessary arrangements. The shipping cost will either be the responsibility of the reseller or the customer, depending on the agreement (5Gstore customers can obtain a return label for this purpose).

Another convenient option for recycling your device is through Amazon’s free electronics recycling program. Simply visit their site and fill in your information to receive a shipping label for your device. All devices sent for recycling will be properly handled by a licensed recycling facility. However, please note that Peplink reserves the right to recover the device instead of recycling it.

Don’t Miss Out on this Exclusive Offer!

Now is the perfect time to upgrade your cellular router to the powerful BR2 Pro from Peplink. With its dual 5G capabilities, stronger Wi-Fi, and the incredible $400 discount, you can supercharge your network while enjoying substantial savings. Remember, this trade-in program is only available for a limited time, so make sure to take advantage of this offer before it’s gone!

For more information and to get started with the BR2 Pro Trade-In Program, visit our website or contact our sales team today. Upgrade your router, boost your network, and save big with Peplink!

Enhance Your 4G/5G Connectivity with Outdoor Router Solutions

In today’s increasingly connected world, reliable and high-speed internet connectivity is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. Whether you’re on a remote job site, traveling in an RV, or hosting an outdoor event, staying connected can be a challenge. Traditional solutions involving indoor routers/modems and outdoor antennas often fall short due to the limitations of coaxial cables and lack of antenna support. However, with an outdoor rated cellular router or a router in an outdoor enclosure, you can enjoy seamless connectivity with enhanced performance and flexibility. In this article, we’re going to take a look at common issues with achieving good cellular connectivity with indoor routers and see how that compares to outdoor solutions.

Coaxial Cable Limitations

When extending the reach of your network outdoors, coaxial cables are commonly used. However, coaxial cables introduce signal loss, resulting in degraded performance. For example, the loss of a high quality LMR400 type 20 foot cable averages about 1dB, while a 100 foot cable loses about 5dB. Every 3dB of loss in the system represents about a 50% loss of power. Compare this to Ethernet cables, which can be run up to approximately 300 feet without significant loss. With every foot of coaxial cable used, you lose antenna gain, ultimately impacting the overall signal strength. 

Antenna Port Support

To fully leverage the capabilities of 4G LTE and 5G modems, it’s crucial to support all antenna ports. Some routers lack external antenna support, limiting the signal reception and transmission capabilities. Those that do support external antenna ports will typically have 2 to 4 ports. This means having to run at least that many coaxial cables. In comparison to outdoor routers or enclosures, you typically only have to run 1 Ethernet cable to connect it to your indoor network. This is assuming the router supports power over Ethernet (PoE). If it does not, then you will also need to run a cable for power along with an Ethernet cable for the network connection. 

Hardware Placement

In a typical setup with outdoor antennas, the positioning of your WiFi hardware is often dictated by the need to connect it to the antennas for optimal signal reception. This can limit your flexibility in terms of device placement, as you must ensure a physical connection between the hardware and the antennas using coaxial cables. As a result, you might have to compromise on the WiFi coverage or performance in order to maintain a reliable cellular connection.

However, with an outdoor router or router enclosure, the integrated design eliminates the need for physical connections between your WiFi hardware and external antennas. The outdoor solutions combine the router, modem, and antennas into a single unit, allowing you to place your WiFi hardware wherever it works best for your specific scenario. Some of these outdoor solutions may even support their own built in WiFi access point, allowing for more coverage inside and out.

This flexibility opens up a world of possibilities. You can now position your WiFi hardware in a central location within your office, workspace, or venue, without having to worry about signal degradation or the hassle of running cables to external antennas. This means you can optimize WiFi coverage, improve device accessibility, and provide a better user experience for your clients, customers, or employees.

Benefits of Outdoor Router Solutions:

  • Superior Signal Quality: Using an Ethernet cable for connectivity reduces signal loss and ensures higher signal quality over long distances. This feature enables you to maintain reliable and stable connectivity, even in challenging outdoor environments.
  • Easy Installation and Deployment: Unlike traditional setups that require separate indoor and outdoor components, these are all-in-one solutions. With PoE, simply run one Ethernet cable indoors. 
  • Versatility and Mobility: Outdoor solutions are typically compact and rugged designs, making them ideal for a wide range of outdoor applications. Whether you’re in a construction site, emergency response location, or mobile command center, the devices offer the flexibility and durability needed to withstand harsh environmental conditions. 

Is An Outdoor Cellular Router Right for You?

The first thing to do is check around your property for the best signal strength and bandwidth speeds. Use your cell phone to test inside and outside. When outside, you’ll ideally want to test at the highest point, like the roof. Signals tend to be stronger at this point as there are less obstructions impeding them. 

The stronger the signal and speeds are outside your location, the better chance you have at making an indoor router with an outdoor antenna work. You’re still losing some of the signal and speeds by the time the connection makes it inside. Though because the signal is so strong outside, you can likely make due with some loss. If your signal is still quite weak outside, this is where you want to hold onto as much signal and bandwidth as possible. 

Take into consideration the number of antenna ports your router has, if any. Are you able to run that many cables? You may also want to add a lightning surge protector so that your router is not affected by strikes to the antenna. One of these will need to be run on each cable line. Keep in mind that this also causes signal loss. Though a minimal amount, this loss can add up quickly.

So, in the pursuit of reliable outdoor networking, outdoor routers and outdoor enclosures can be a powerful and effective solution. By leveraging Ethernet cables instead of coaxial cables, supporting multiple antennas, and offering an all-in-one design, they overcome the limitations of indoor routers/modems and outdoor antenna combinations. With superior signal quality, enhanced coverage, and ease of installation, outdoor router solutions empower businesses and individuals to stay connected wherever they go. Invest in one today and unlock a new level of connectivity for your networking needs.

Selecting an Appropriate Solution

There are several outdoor router solutions available on the market today. Models like the Peplink MAX HD Domes have become popular because of its remote SIM support using the Peplink SIM Injector devices. This connects via Ethernet cable to the HD Dome router and extends access to the SIM card slots so users do not have to climb up to access the HD Dome SIM slots directly. Other popular solutions include:

Still looking for a solution? Contact the experts at 5Gstore.com for assistance.

What Device is Using All My Data: Troubleshooting High or Unexpected Data Usage

Going over on your monthly data usage. Incurring even more fees for the month. This is one of the worst things these days. For those fortunate enough to have an unlimited amount of data with their Internet service, you may not understand. Even if you’re getting close to your limit, there’s stress and anxiety about staying under that limit. You might sacrifice certain activities for fear of going over. What if you could find out the device that is using all your data and then limit just that device?

Viewing Data Usage

On Peplink routers, for example, you can view your data usage in real time, or by hour, day and month. This is all done right from the router’s administration pages. When viewing the hourly, daily or monthly options you can see a breakdown of the connected client devices and how much data they used. To check this out on your own Peplink, log into the web administration and go to the Status tab. Look to the left and you’ll see the Usage Reports options.

Cradlepoint also has the ability to view client data usage. You can either view this from the router’s local administration page, or through the NetCloud Manager (NCM) account. Client Data usage information is initially tracked within the router, and then it’s sent to NCM at specified intervals. This is generated by a report that you must schedule to run. Note that a NetCloud Essentials+Advanced plan is necessary for this feature. Also, viewing usage through NCM is going to provide you with analytics for all clients connected to the devices in an account or group. For viewing just a single router’s network, view this from the local administration pages.

Digi has a similar feature to Cradlepoint’s NetCloud. It is available through their cloud manager service, Digi Remote Manager. The feature, called Intelliflow, simply needs to be enabled for a group of devices and then it starts tracking usage. IntelliFlow is also available to view on the local router for device-specific usage information. To use intelliFlow on the local device, you must have access to the local administration page. Once you enable intelliFlow (find this on the Monitoring page), the Status -> intelliFlow option is available in the main menu. On the local device, intelliFlow provides charts on the following information: System utilization, Top data usage by host, Top data usage by server, Top data usage by service, and Host data usage over time. 

Remembering Devices

If you identify devices you want to remember, you may also go to the client list. For Peplink and Cradlepoint, this is found at the Status tab. For Digi see “Static Leases” under LAN settings. Saving a “reservation” on the router ensures that your computer or other device will always connect with the same address. You can even give the device a name to make it easier to identify.  

Tracking All Usage

Even if your 4G or 5G router does not support client data usage tracking, there may be another option. Chances are that just like with Peplink and Cradlepoint, the router will at least allow you to create alerts and/ or data usage rules. These would either alert you when a certain data amount was reached, or tell the router to shut the connection down at a certain limit. This is also possible on Sierra Wireless, Digi, and Inseego routers.

Finding Your Solution

You can start leveraging these capabilities and taking advantage of the data usage monitoring and control features provided by router manufacturers today. Users can effectively manage their data consumption, avoid exceeding their limits, and mitigate the stress and financial burden associated with overages. With greater control over their data usage, individuals can confidently enjoy their online activities without compromising their budgets or sacrificing their peace of mind. So don’t wait any longer, reach out to the experts at 5Gstore.com for assistance finding your perfect solution.