Category: 5G

How to Improve Your Cellular RSSI/ RSRP: Tips and Tricks for Better Mobile Connectivity

When it comes to cellular data connectivity, good signal strength is crucial. Without a decent signal, you’re not going to get very far. Cellular signal strength and quality can vary greatly depending on your location from a cellular tower, terrain, network overloads, and other factors. Weak cellular coverage can be incredibly frustrating and cause a variety of problems, such as dropped calls, slow internet speeds, and poor call quality. If you live or work in an area with poor cellular coverage, a cellular antenna or a signal booster (also called an amplifier, a cellular booster, or a cellular repeater) may be the solution you need.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the basics of cellular coverage and how to determine a good reference signal received power (RSRP) and/or a good-received signal strength indicator (RSSI). We’ll also share a few tips and tricks about improving your RSRP and RSSI for better cellular connectivity.

First Things First: The Site Survey

It’s important to first determine how much signal you’re currently working with. This will help confirm whether you may benefit from an antenna or a cellular signal booster kit. The method in which you will test your signal strength is called a “site survey.” Instead of looking at your signal bars, a site survey digs into the cellular device’s settings to find its RSSI. Some devices may also have an RSRP value, which is found on LTE and 5G devices.

So, what’s a good RSRP or RSSI signal strength? Both RSSI and RSRP values are displayed as negative numbers. The closer this negative number is to zero, the better the signal strength. If your signal is very weak to begin with, chances are you will need both an antenna and an amplifier. This depends on where (if anywhere) you’re getting a stronger signal. For example, if you’re able to step outside and receive a stronger signal, an antenna should be sufficient. If there’s little to no improvement when you step outside, then a booster system will be necessary.

Cellular Signal Amplifiers/Boosters

A cellular signal amplifier/booster is a device that captures weak cellular signals outside of your building or vehicle, amplifies them, and then rebroadcasts the stronger signal inside. This can greatly improve device coverage in your building or vehicle. You might use a booster if you need to travel outside your current location before you start seeing any signal improvement.

Just like most things, boosters do have their limits. If you experience very weak signals (e.g., between -108dB and -120dB), it will be difficult to determine exactly how much signal improvement you’ll receive. The weaker your starting signal is — meaning where your external antenna is mounted — the less signal rebroadcast coverage area you’ll experience. In some cases, you may need to stay within a few feet of your inside antenna to receive a boosted signal.

Cellular Antennas

A cellular antenna is a device that amplifies the signal received by your cellular device, allowing you to stay connected in areas with weak coverage. These antennas can be installed on your home, office building, or vehicle. They are typically used for connecting a single cellular device with an external antenna port. Amplifier/signal booster kits will also use antennas to receive signals from cell towers, and rebroadcast them to cellular devices.

How a Signal Booster Kit or an Antenna Can Benefit Poor Signals

Both cellular antennas and signal boosters can be great solutions for those who live or work in areas with weak cellular coverage. They can improve call quality, prevent dropped calls, and increase internet speeds, making it easier to stay connected. If you’re experiencing issues with your cellular coverage and your site survey has confirmed a poor cellular signal, consider investing in a cellular antenna or a signal booster. These devices can significantly affect your ability to stay connected and are cost-effective solutions for those living or working in areas with poor coverage.

Amplifier System or Antenna: How to Choose

How do you know which solution is best for you? We suggest verifying where you have the best signal strength and bandwidth speeds. If that location is under 100 feet, then a cellular antenna should be a sufficient solution. In the event that the better signal is over 100 feet away, you will likely need an amplifier.

If you have only one device, go with a direct-connect booster. For more than one device, a repeater kit will be capable of boosting the signal wirelessly to multiple devices at the same time. An important fact to note about antennas is that you will want to keep the cable length to a minimum. This is because the longer the cable, the more signal you will lose.

5Gstore has a variety of cellular antennas and all-in-one amplifier kits from well-respected manufacturers like SureCall, Panorama, weBoost, Wilson, and others. These products are available in many different price points for building, vehicle, or M2M/IoT use. These systems can also be tailored to your specific mounting needs, such as pole mount, magnetic mount on cars or RVs, or wall mount.

Need Help? 5Gstore Can Help!

Still not sure what you need to improve your cellular signals? Have more questions about repeaters and/or antennas? Check out our repeater FAQ page and learn more about how to find a matching antenna on our website.

You can also check in directly with the experts at 5Gstore.com. We’re available Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST via phone, email, or chat.

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What Data Plans are Available at 5Gstore?

Are you looking for an affordable cellular data plan for your failover or primary Internet service? 5Gstore.com is currently offering 4 different data plans, all with one of the nation’s biggest cellular providers, Verizon Wireless. These data plans will accommodate users needing either 4G LTE or 5G service. Here’s a breakdown of each plan:

  • 4G LTE Failover plan
    • $10/mo (includes 1GB)
    • $10 Per Additional GB
    • For fixed or mobile use
  • 4G LTE Failover plan with Static IP address
    • $12/mo (includes 1GB)
    • $10 Per Additional GB
    • For fixed or mobile use
  • 5G Unlimited with Static IP address
  • 4G LTE Standard plan with Static IP
    • $84.99/mo (includes 300GB)
    • $10 Per Additional 5GB
    • For fixed or mobile use

You might be asking why the 5G plan requires address verification while the others do not. This is because the 5G service is limited to fixed wireless access (FWA). This 5G service includes access to Verizon’s C-Band frequencies, which provide some of the fastest bandwidth speeds. The speeds at this time will generally be around 100-150 Mbps down and 10-15 Mbps up. 

Verizon is also only allowing a certain number of 5G Unlimited plans to be sold per cell tower. Once each of the 5G “nodes” are sold, they cannot sell any more. With this being a first come, first served situation, it’s best if you act quickly! 

But what if your address is not currently in a 5G C-Band area (also called Ultra Wideband)? Not to worry! All you need to do is wait. After you submit your address once, we will continue to check periodically for coverage. Only after we receive confirmation that there is coverage, will we contact you to let you know. 

Not interested in a 5G plan? Take a look at our 4G LTE plans instead. Keep in mind that there is limited data usage included and overage fees. If you’re not sure how much data you will need, follow our guide for assistance and check out our data usage calculator as well.  

How about a static IP address? Do you need one? How might a static IP help you? There are of course pros and cons to everything, including static IP addresses. Find out more about static IPs before you decide.

If you’re still uncertain about what data plan you require, contact the experts at 5Gstore.com for assistance. We’re available Monday thru Friday, 9am to 6pm CT via phone, email, or chat!

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What is SD-WAN and How is it Beneficial? 

These days organizations rely heavily on their network infrastructure to communicate with customers, partners, and employees. However, managing a network can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially when dealing with multiple branch locations, data centers, and cloud services. This is where SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) can be helpful. SD-WAN is a networking technology that utilizes multiple WAN connections. There is software that essentially defines which WAN connection traffic on your network should use. This allows businesses to connect their various locations and services in a more efficient and cost-effective manner. 

Improved Network Performance

SD-WAN can automatically route traffic over the most optimal path, improving network performance and minimizing latency. It does this by analyzing network traffic and selecting the best path based on factors such as bandwidth availability, network congestion, and link quality. This ensures that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need to function effectively, while less critical applications are routed over lower-priority paths.

Increased Agility

SD-WAN simplifies network management and makes it easier to make changes to the network quickly and easily. With SD-WAN, network administrators can manage their WAN using software and automation. This reduces the need for manual configuration and management. Deploying new applications and services is made easier, as well as making changes to the network on the fly.

Cost Savings

SD-WAN allows organizations to reduce their reliance on expensive MPLS circuits and leverage more affordable broadband internet services. This is achieved by using multiple transport technologies – such as broadband, 4G/5G, and MPLS – to create a hybrid network that can be dynamically adjusted to meet bandwidth and performance needs. This not only decreases costs but also provides organizations with more flexibility when it comes to selecting their network infrastructure.

SD-WAN In Use

SD-WAN can be used in a number of different applications. It does not matter if you only have one user or multiple. In situations where you need the best network performance and reliability possible, look for a SD-WAN solution. Here are some common use cases for SD-WAN:

  • Connecting branch offices: SD-WAN allows organizations to connect their remote branch offices to their main network without the need for expensive dedicated connections. This can be achieved by leveraging low-cost broadband internet connections and using SD-WAN to intelligently route traffic over the most optimal path.
  • Cloud connectivity: With the increasing use of cloud services, SD-WAN provides a secure and reliable way to connect to cloud applications and services. It can optimize traffic routing and ensure that users have access to the most suitable and high-performing cloud resources.
  • Security: SD-WAN offers enhanced security features such as end-to-end encryption, next-generation firewalls, and intrusion prevention systems. This ensures that the traffic flowing over the network is secure and protected from cyber threats.
  • Application performance: SD-WAN provides organizations with better control over their applications by optimizing traffic routing, prioritizing traffic based on business needs, and providing real-time visibility into network performance.
  • Internet Backup: In the event of a network outage, SD-WAN can also provide failover capabilities. It will automatically route traffic over secondary links and allow critical applications to remain operational. When your primary link reconnects, traffic will be rerouted as needed.

Overall, SD-WAN is a powerful networking technology that can help organizations improve their network performance, reduce costs, and increase agility. By simplifying network infrastructure and automating network management, SD-WAN can free up valuable time and resources for organizations, allowing them to focus on their core business objectives. Whether you need to connect multiple sites, support remote workforces, or provide secure Wi-Fi access to customers, SD-WAN can help simplify management.

If you’re interested in learning more about SD-WAN and how it can benefit your business, contact us today via phone, email, or chat!

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Will US Wireless Carriers’ Voluntary Commitments Address Aviation Safety Concerns for 5G Use?

Four major US wireless carriers have recently made voluntary commitments to address aviation safety concerns and allow full use of the C-Band wireless spectrum for 5G use. Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile US, and UScellular submitted a letter to the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) outlining their voluntary commitments to support full-power deployments across C-Band while minimizing the operational impact on their C-Band operations.

The FAA had previously expressed concerns that 5G service could interfere with airplane altimeters, which provide critical data on a plane’s height above the ground and are essential for safe landing during bad weather. This had led to brief disruptions at some US airports last year, prompting the voluntary commitments by the wireless carriers.

Verizon and AT&T had already agreed to delay some C-Band 5G usage until July last year, while T-Mobile and UScellular had not begun deployment at the time of the agreement. The latest voluntary commitments are seen as a major step forward and will allow carriers to increase power levels to get to full C-Band use.

The voluntary commitments made by the wireless carriers could last until 2028, according to sources briefed on the matter. The FAA had initially sought to extend some through up to 2033. The FCC has not yet commented on the matter, while the FAA said it continues to work closely to ensure a safe co-existence in the US 5G C-band environment.

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Don’t Need 5G? New Lotion Can Block Signals

5GStore works tirelessly to be a leading provider of cutting-edge wireless solutions. As we look forward to the exciting advancement of 5G technology and what the future holds, we also want to make sure we stay one step ahead of the competition. 5GStore is proud to announce the release of our latest product: A lotion designed and proven to block 5G radio waves. While we love to help our customers improve their 5G capability, we understand the growing concerns about the potential health effects of exposure to these higher-frequency waves. We believe our lotion is the perfect solution to this problem. After all, your skin is the ultimate firewall. Let’s make it even better!

5Gstore has partnered with leading scientists and engineers to help develop and test our new product. We have rigorously tested the lotion in a variety of settings and it has shown to be highly effective in blocking 5G signals. The lotion is made from a proprietary blend of all-natural ingredients that work together to absorb and block 5G, while leaving your skin feeling vibrant and revitalized. Our one-of-a-kind lotion will be available in two fragrances. The fragrance,’Wireless Wonder,’ captures the ethereal essence of Radio waves and leaves you smelling great with notes of Lavender and Vanilla, with just a hint of static electricity! The second fragrance will be an ever popular Hawaiian Breeze that will transport you to a tropical island of relaxation, with sweet and fruity notes of pineapple and coconut.

We are excited to be at the forefront of 5G technology and are confident that our 5G-blocking lotion will become a must-have for anyone concerned about the potential health effects of 5G radiation. We have spared no expense when it comes to the health of our customers and our product is 100% certified Vegan and Cruelty free!  We believe it will be particularly popular with parents who are concerned about the health and well-being of their children.

We understand that some people may be skeptical of our product, which is why we are offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you try our lotion and are not satisfied with its effectiveness, simply return it for a full refund. Our 5G-blocking lotion is now available for purchase on our website. Order now and provide your family with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are protected from 5G radiation. 

By 5G

How to Connect with Your Dog Using 5G

Introducing the future of dog collars – our 5G enabled dog collar! With this incredible piece of technology, your furry friend will be more than just a pet – they’ll be a gadget-loving family member. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a technologically advanced pup by their side?

With the power of 5G technology, you’ll always be able to keep an eye on your pet, no matter where they are. Our collar is designed with safety in mind. Track your dog’s location with incredible accuracy, so you can rest easy knowing that they’re safe and sound.

But that’s not all! Our collar also features a range of other incredible features. You’ll be able to set up custom geofencing alerts, so you’ll be notified if your dog strays outside of a designated area. You can also set electric fence areas if you simply want to prevent them from accessing certain locations. 

Should your pet ever get lost, our collar includes a built-in GPS tracker to help you locate them quickly and easily. This is backed by the support of all iOS users. Just like the Apple Air Tag, the collar will send out a secure Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby devices in the “Find My network.” These devices send the location of your collar to iCloud.

Want to see where your pet goes? This nifty collar has a 4K camera. Thanks to the 5G, you can link into the collar and remotely view the live feed. Connect your VR headset and make it a real experience! Not available to view it live? Use the playback feature and see what your dog was up to when you weren’t around. 

Imagine tuning into the camera feed and catching your dog destroying your sofa. What can you do? Well, we’ve got something for that too! Just use the 2 way speaker to yell at them! If that doesn’t work, we have a vibrate feature to help snap them out of it (NOTE: This does not work for all dogs). 

Your dog can even be the life of the party (as if they weren’t already?). Enable the WiFi hotspot feature and have Internet wherever you go. There’s no more need to bring a Bluetooth speaker either. Enable Bluetooth and your dog is instantly linked into your WiFi sound system to play your favorite tracks. Or it can provide sound directly from its built-in speaker. 

Part of the real magic of our 5G enabled dog collar is the way it connects you to your pet like never before. With our companion app, you’ll be able to monitor your dog’s activity levels, track their exercise routines, and even receive health and wellness tips based on their individual needs. 

So why settle for a plain old dog collar when you can have a 5G enabled one? Order now and get yours in every color of the rainbow, because every tech-savvy dog deserves a stylish accessory.

Available for pre-order now at https://5Gstore.com/5GDogCollar

By 5G

Sierra Wireless Investigates Issue with 5G Band

Sierra Wireless, a Semtech company, released a statement late yesterday regarding an issue found on some AirLink devices. Take a look at the details below:

We are investigating an issue where MG90 5G single-radio North American and XR80/90 5G North American routers may experience permanent and irreversible connectivity issues on 5G band n41 used by T-Mobile and Rogers. For the complete details, refer to the Bulletin located on The Source here:

This bulletin provides steps that our customers using our 5G routers on T-Mobile and Rogers must take to ensure their routers remain operable until new firmware is released.

The details are:

  • 5G band n41 is used by T-Mobile and Rogers, therefore this issue only impacts 5G routers operating on T-Mobile and Rogers.
  • n41 may experience permanent and irreversible damage. The occurrence of the issue can be prevented by following the steps in the bulletin.

Please refer to the Bulletin for the details.

Corrective MGOS and AIRLINK OS firmware releases will be available in the May 2023 timeframe.

We will provide additional guidance when we have details to share about the upcoming MGOS/AIRLINK OS releases.

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Why You Should Use a Cellular Backup for IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the world as we know it. It has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work, and communicate, with billions of connected devices already in use around the world. IoT has a wide range of applications, from smart homes and cities to healthcare, industrial, and transportation. With this increased connectivity comes the need for reliable and resilient IoT networks. 

IoT networks are designed to connect billions of devices in real-time, providing access to information and data when and where it’s needed. This also means IoT networks are vulnerable to disruptions and outages. A single point of failure in the network can result in significant consequences, such as the loss of critical data, loss of productivity, and even financial losses. This is where cellular Internet can help.

Since 5G is becoming increasingly available, IoT devices and applications have become more sophisticated and data-intensive, which has led to the need for better connectivity and faster data transfer rates. Cellular provides a reliable and secure connection, even when other communication channels are unavailable. This is especially important for IoT devices that need to function in remote or challenging environments, where a reliable and stable connection is essential. For example, IoT devices used in agriculture, mining, or oil and gas production often operate in remote locations where traditional fixed-line networks are not available. Cellular can provide a primary or backup connection that keeps these devices online and functioning, even in the event of a network outage or disruption.

Speed and Reliability 

In addition to providing a reliable backup connection, cellular can also improve the speed and reliability of IoT networks. Cellular networks are designed to handle large amounts of data traffic, and can often provide faster and more reliable connections compared to traditional fixed-line networks. This is because cellular networks use the latest technology and have the ability to dynamically allocate bandwidth based on demand, providing a better user experience.

This improved speed and reliability can be particularly useful for IoT devices that require real-time data transfer, such as those used in healthcare, industrial, or transportation applications. All can benefit from high-speed connectivity, low latency, and advanced security features that some LTE, and 5G-enabled routers and gateways can provide. 

Enhanced Security

Another advantage of using a cellular backup for IoT is security. IoT networks can be vulnerable to cyber attacks and hacking, and cellular Internet provides an additional layer of security to protect against these threats. Cellular networks are designed to be secure and reliable, and use encryption and other security measures to protect against unauthorized access. This includes secure authentication methods, network-level encryption, and firewalls to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.

In addition, cellular networks are subject to strict regulatory and compliance requirements, which ensure that they are secure and reliable. For example, in the European Union, mobile broadband networks must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which sets strict rules on data protection and privacy. In the United States, mobile broadband networks must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations, which set standards for network security and reliability.

It’s important to note that the security features offered by mobile broadband services can vary depending on the service provider and the specific plan or package you choose. Additionally, users should always take basic security precautions such as keeping their device and software up to date, using strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious websites and links.

Cellular and IoT

Cellular Internet can be used in IoT applications to provide connectivity to a wide range of devices and sensors, allowing them to communicate with each other and with cloud-based services. Here are some ways that cellular can be used in IoT applications:

  • Remote monitoring: IoT devices can be deployed in remote locations to collect data and transmit it to the cloud using cellular connectivity. This data can then be analyzed to provide insights and improve operational efficiency.
  • Asset tracking: Use cellular to track the location and status of assets, such as vehicles or shipping containers, in real-time. This allows organizations to optimize logistics and improve supply chain management.
  • Smart homes: Cellular Internet can be used to connect smart home devices, such as thermostats, security cameras, and lighting, to the internet. This allows homeowners to remotely control and monitor their homes from anywhere.
  • Wearables: When WiFi is not available, wearable devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, use cellular to connect to the internet. This allows users to track their health and fitness data and receive real-time alerts and notifications, no matter where they are.
  • Industrial automation: Connect industrial automation systems, such as robots and sensors, to the internet. This allows organizations to automate processes and optimize production.

Cellular backup for IoT provides a flexible connection, improved speed and reliability, and enhanced security for IoT devices. By leveraging the strengths of cellular Internet, organizations can ensure the resilience and reliability of their IoT networks, and safeguard against network disruptions and outages. If you’re looking to optimize your IoT network and ensure the success of your IoT initiatives, consider implementing a cellular backup for peace of mind and increased functionality. Whether you’re operating in remote locations or urban environments, a cellular backup can be a valuable investment for any organization looking to fully leverage the power of the Internet of Things.

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Using WiFi as WAN: A Cost-Effective Backup Internet Connection

Let’s face it. The internet has become an integral part of our lives. It’s essential for both personal and business purposes. With the increasing demand for internet connectivity, it’s crucial to have a reliable internet connection. So what do you do when your internet connection goes down? Is there a WiFi network available near you that you can connect to? This is where WiFi as WAN can be used as a backup internet connection.

What is WiFi as WAN?

WiFi as WAN is a technology that enables you to use a nearby WiFi network as a Wide Area Network (WAN) or in other words, your Internet connection. This means that you can use a WiFi network to connect to the internet, just like you would with a wired connection. It works much like a WiFi repeater where it takes one WiFi signal and rebroadcasts it using its own WiFi network. However, you also have the ability to connect wired devices too. This is because in most cases, the WiFi as WAN device is just another router. 

Benefits of WiFi as WAN

Using WiFi as WAN for a backup internet connection has many benefits. Firstly, it’s cost-effective. WiFi networks are widely available, making it easy to find a connection when your primary connection goes down. If you travel, a lot of locations provide free WiFi to their guests. Should you need this at your home or office, check with your neighbors to see what ISP (Internet Service Provider) they use. If it’s different from your own, suggest sharing your WiFi connections as a backup to your primary connections. 

WiFi as WAN is easy to set up. It’s a lot like connecting your laptop or cell phone to a WiFi network. All you need is a WiFi as WAN enabled device, such as the Cradlepoint IBR600C cellular router, or a dedicated WiFi as WAN device, like the Peplink Device Connector IP55. Once you have this device, you’ll log into its administration page to enable the WiFi as WAN connection. After it’s enabled it will start scanning for nearby WiFi networks. Simply pull up the list like you would on any WiFi device, select the network of your choice and enter the password, if required. Want to see how it works for yourself? Check out the Pepwave/Peplink MAX example in our YouTube video below.

There are several WiFi as WAN devices that are portable. You can take your WiFi as WAN enabled device with you wherever you go, making it easy to stay connected even when you’re on the move. This is particularly useful for people and businesses that need to stay connected while traveling.

WiFi as WAN can help to better protect your network devices. When connecting to an unknown WiFi network, especially when there’s no password protection, it can put your devices at risk. By using a WiFi as WAN connection instead, you can protect, or encrypt, your network and keep it private. This prevents any unwanted connections from being established to the same network as your personal devices. 

Using WiFi as WAN as a backup internet connection can be more reliable when using multiple WiFi networks. Just like most WiFi devices, they will remember more than one WiFi network so that they may connect whenever they’re available. WiFi as WAN devices can do this also. If one WiFi network fails, another one can connect. Then, if the primary WiFi WAN connection reconnects, it can automatically switch back.

Are There Any Downsides to WiFi as WAN?

There are some considerations to keep in mind when using WiFi as WAN as a backup internet connection. Due to the many ways you can set up your WiFi, not all WiFi networks are created the same, nor are they managed similarly. Some may have settings in place that can prevent your WiFi as WAN device from establishing a connection. That’s even when they do not have a password for connecting. Instead, they use a page to verify who you are before they allow or deny your connection. Unfortunately, WiFi as WAN devices typically cannot work around these management settings. 

WiFi networks can be slow and have limited bandwidth. This can be impacted even more with WiFi as WAN because you are repeating another connection. Every time you repeat something, it’s not quite as perfect as the original. This can be a problem if you’re using WiFi as WAN for bandwidth-intensive activities, such as video conferencing or streaming. In this case, you may need to use a wired connection or a dedicated WAN connection.

WiFi networks can be subject to interference. This can cause disruptions to your connection, particularly if you’re in an area with a lot of competing wireless signals. To mitigate this, you may need to look at using a different frequency and channel than other nearby WiFi networks. 

Finding a WiFi as WAN Device

Before you purchase any WiFi as WAN hardware, start by determining your requirements. Consider factors such as the number of users, the coverage area, the internet speed, and the types of devices you will be connecting (in case you need any Ethernet ports for wired connections). Research the different WiFi as WAN devices available in the market. Consider factors such as the brand reputation, customer reviews, and the features offered. Look for WiFi as WAN devices that offer security features such as encryption, firewalls, and access control to protect your network from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Ensure that the WiFi as WAN device you choose is compatible with your existing network infrastructure, including your router, modem, and other devices. Of course, also consider the cost and included support and warranty on the device.

In conclusion, using WiFi as WAN as a backup internet connection is a cost-effective, reliable, and easy-to-use solution. It’s particularly useful for businesses that need to stay connected, even when their primary internet connection goes down. However, it’s important to ensure that the WiFi network you’re connecting to is fast enough for your needs, and to be aware of the potential limitations of WiFi networks, such as interference. With the right precautions, WiFi as WAN can be a powerful tool for staying connected in today’s increasingly digital world.

To learn more about WiFi as WAN, ask the experts at 5Gstore.com. You can reach us by phone, email, or chat!

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Considerations for Successful Work and Travel: How to Stay Connected with Cellular

The ability to work remotely has opened up a world of opportunities for people who love to travel. With a cellular internet connection, you can work from almost anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a freelancer or a full-time remote worker, working from the road can be both exhilarating and challenging. In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps you can take to work from the road with a cellular internet connection.

The most crucial aspect of working from the road is a reliable internet connection. A stable and fast internet connection is essential for most remote work jobs, as most tasks require internet access. It’s important to research ahead of time and find out if your destination(s) offer any internet connectivity. Even if they do, we suggest investing in a cellular Internet device and service so that you don’t have to rely on someone else’s connection. 

Choose the right equipment

The first step to working from the road with a cellular internet connection is to choose the right equipment. You’ll need a reliable laptop and/or tablet along with a portable cellular hotspot device. This can either be your smartphone acting as a hotspot, a dedicated battery powered WiFi hotspot, or a router with embedded cellular modem. If you’re looking for the most reliable however, we recommend a router. These are meant to stay online 24/7 (if needed) and allow for multiple connections, wired and wireless. They can also support multiple WAN connections and automatically failover and failback between connections. 

You’ll also want to consider an antenna or signal booster that can improve the existing signals wherever you go. Should you select a router with an embedded modem, an antenna should be sufficient. These are meant for connecting directly to a single device at a time. However, if you will be using multiple cellular devices to connect with, then a signal booster is the best option. This will take the existing signal and boost it wirelessly to any device within range. 

Choose the right cellular provider

The next step is to choose the right cellular provider. Do some research to find out which providers offer the best coverage in the areas you’ll be traveling to. Look for providers that offer unlimited data plans, as you’ll be using a lot of data while working remotely. If you’re going to be using your phone, make sure your plan includes a good amount of hotspot data as well.

Find a good spot to work

Once you’ve set up your equipment and chosen a cellular provider, it’s time to find a good spot to work. Coverage maps show availability, but you won’t know the signal or speeds until you get on site. Test the connection speeds to verify if you have enough to work. You could also look for coffee shops, libraries, co-working spaces, or other places that offer free WiFi. Just make sure that the WiFi is also fast enough to support your work. 

Manage your data usage

Working from the road with a cellular internet connection means that you’ll be using a lot of data. To avoid running out of data in the middle of an important task, you need to manage your data usage carefully. One way to manage your data usage is to use data-saving apps and browser extensions. These tools can help you compress images and videos, block ads, and reduce your data usage while browsing the internet.

You should also be mindful of your data usage when streaming videos or music. Consider downloading your favorite shows and songs before hitting the road. This way you can avoid eating up your data plan too quickly. Just take a look at our data usage calculator to gather an idea of how much data you may need.

If unlimited plans are not offered, some folks will get multiple lines of data from the same carrier. This way they can switch SIM cards once one has used all its data allotment. If that’s not possible, they’ll opt for a different carrier as a secondary connection.

Stay connected and secure

Working remotely can be isolating, but it’s important to stay connected with your team and clients. Use video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet to communicate with your team members and clients.

It’s also a good idea to set up a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your online privacy and security. A VPN can encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from cyber threats. You can also find a router with a good firewall. This allows you to protect your entire network from possible threats.

When you’re connected to someone else’s Internet, it makes your devices vulnerable as they can be seen by other devices on the same network. If you plan on doing this, we recommend you use a router to connect into the network first. You will then have your own private network that you can connect all your personal devices to.

Have a backup plan

Even with the best equipment and planning, things can go wrong when working from the road. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan in place. Consider carrying a backup battery for your laptop and smartphone, as well as a backup portable WiFi hotspot device. You can also download important documents and files to your laptop or smartphone, so that you can access them even if you don’t have an internet connection.

Before You Get on the Road

Working from the road with a cellular internet connection can be both challenging and rewarding. It’s important to do research beforehand so that you select the best cellular carrier and data plan. Once you have your hardware in place, test it out at your main location and see how it works. Evaluate the connection performance for your primary applications to make sure it’s sufficient. Remember that an antenna or signal booster can help with the performance. By following these steps, you can stay connected and productive while exploring the world.

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