5Gstore Top 10 Products of 2023

The ranking of 5Gstore’s premier products is determined by a blend of their popularity, the quantity of customer reviews received, and the average rating bestowed by customers. Several perennial favorites from this year’s winners, such as the IP Switch Dual Outlet and Cradlepoint IBR600C, have consistently made appearances on our “Top Products” lists in previous years. On the other hand, newcomers to the list for this year include the Digi IX10 and the Sierra Wireless RV55.

If you’ve purchased any of these items (or others!) from 5Gstore, remember that you can log in at 5Gstore.com to share your own review. We publish ALL reviews and value your feedback!

A big congratulations to all the manufacturers of our top products for 2023!

RankProductReviews
1Peplink MAX BR1 Pro 5G

Ruggedized router with embedded 5G/ LTE Cat 20 modem and WiFi 6 for power users.		“Using with a prepaid data only plan from AT&T. Everything works great.”
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2Peplink MAX BR1 Mini
Affordable router with embedded LTE Cat 7 modem – for home, travel, and small business.		“Great Modem at a reasonable price.”
“Excellent full function mobile router, InControl makes for easy remote management. I opted for the Wifi as WAN option.”
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3Cradlepoint IBR600C

Compact, semi-ruggedized small business/ IoT router with embedded Cat 4 LTE modem.		“Works as advertised. Fast shipping. Great service and follow-up. Thanks 5G.” 
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4UIS-622B

Simple to use device that allows you to remotely monitor and reboot up to two pieces of equipment via smartphone app or cloud.		“For those that are out of town and monitoring things remotely at home or vacation location this switch can really help. Good improvements in the latest model.”
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5MobileMark LTM-502

5-in-1 through-roof mount antenna for LTE/ 5G, WiFi, and GPS.		“Well built product.”
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6Sierra Wireless RV55

Rugged LTE router designed with IIoT and public safety in mind.		“Purchasing this Modem was a bit spendy but after installing it and configuring the unit the cellular antenna has been considerably improved. The unit is completely hidden and provides me with excellent connectivity while i am on the road. Working while camping is not much of a challenge anymore.”
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7Panorama WMM4G-6-60

Outdoor directional 4×4 MiMO antenna with wide frequency range support. 		“The antenna works as advertised and works to allow for carrier aggregation where supported.”
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8Digi IX10

LTE cellular router that is purpose-built for industrial applications.		“Great router, but does not include DIN rail mount.”
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9SureCall SC-588W

An ultra wide band outdoor antenna that can support cellular and 2.4GHz WiFi signals.		“This was purchased to replace an older model of the same antenna. The new model will receive the new lower frequency bands in the 600 MHz range.”
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10Peplink Balance 20X

Best in value SD-WAN router with embedded Cat 7 LTE modem and expandable 5G or LTE modem options.		“A business class router with great security features that is within the reach of home owners looking for a better solution than what is typically marketed towards general consumers.”
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Are you interested in learning more about these products? Please reach out to the 5Gstore team for assistance!

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Nextivity CEL-FI GO G41

No matter who you are or what you do, having a strong and consistent cellular signal is crucial, especially in remote areas. Recognizing the need for reliable in-building cellular coverage, Nextivity introduces the CEL-FI GO G41—a single-operator cellular signal booster designed to elevate your connectivity experience.

Unmatched Performance and Versatility

The CEL-FI GO G41 stands out for its unparalleled performance, seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology with ease of installation. Tailored for “small box” retail stores, branch offices, and homes, this booster supports 4G and 5G connectivity. It operates as a dedicated solution for a single mobile network operator (MNO), ensuring a focused and powerful signal enhancement.

Global Connectivity

The CEL-FI GO G41 caters to a global audience with compatibility across different regions. For the Americas, it supports bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 13, and 25, while for the rest of the world, it covers bands 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28L, 28U, and 40. This broad spectrum of supported bands ensures comprehensive coverage, making it suitable for diverse geographical locations.

Nextivity’s 4th Generation IntelliBoost® Technology

At the heart of CEL-FI GO G41 lies Nextivity’s proprietary 4th generation IntelliBoost technology. This advanced chip enables channelized signal boosting, offering industry-leading signal gain of up to 100 dB. This ensures a robust and reliable end-to-end coverage experience within your building, setting it apart from traditional wideband repeaters.

Ease of Installation and Remote Management

One of the key advantages of CEL-FI GO G41 is its quick and hassle-free installation process. Nextivity’s trusted system integrator partners can have the system up and running in as little as a few hours, making it a practical choice for businesses and homes alike. Additionally, the Nextivity WAVE Portal allows users to monitor and manage the booster remotely, providing real-time insights into system performance.

Nextivity WAVE App for Flexibility

The CEL-FI GO G41 offers users the flexibility to choose the MNO signal they want to boost through the Nextivity WAVE App. By connecting to WAVE via Bluetooth®, users can easily select their preferred carrier and enhance coverage within minutes. This feature is particularly valuable for users who may need to switch operators, providing adaptability to changing needs.

Elevating Connectivity for Businesses and Homes

Whether you’re a business owner looking to improve connectivity for customers and employees or a resident in a remote area seeking to boost signal at home, the CEL-FI GO G41 is designed to meet your needs. Enjoy reliable calling, texting, and streaming indoors, enhance the shopping experience with in-store digital couponing, and improve operational efficiency with fast and consistent connectivity.

If you think the CEL-FI GO G41 may be right for you, it is now available to order at 5Gstore.com. Reach out to our team with any questions!

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The Synergy of 5G and Cloud Gaming: Transforming the Gaming Landscape

The gaming industry is currently undergoing a revolutionary transformation, driven by the intersection of 5G cellular networks and the rise of cloud gaming. In this article, we will explore the myriad advantages of cloud gaming and how the integration of 5G technology addresses crucial challenges, particularly in mitigating latency. Additionally, we will delve into the groundbreaking Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable Throughput (L4S) standard, shedding light on its role in shaping the future of mobile cloud gaming.

Advantages of Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming offers a host of advantages that are reshaping the gaming experience for enthusiasts worldwide. One of the most significant benefits is the elimination of storage concerns. Unlike traditional gaming methods that require substantial storage space for large game files and updates, cloud gaming stores and processes games on remote servers. This not only frees gamers from storage constraints but also eliminates the need for expensive hardware upgrades.

Another standout feature of cloud gaming is the instant access it provides. With game files stored remotely and pre-loaded on servers, gamers can dive into their favorite titles without enduring the waiting times associated with local installations. This seamless experience extends to updates, as cloud gaming platforms automatically maintain up-to-date servers, ensuring gamers benefit from the latest patches and enhancements without disruptions.

Cloud gaming also democratizes access to high-end gaming experiences by eliminating the need for costly hardware upgrades. Regardless of the device used, gamers can enjoy demanding titles, making gaming more accessible to enthusiasts with varying budgets. The portability of cloud gaming is evident in the ability to play games anywhere, anytime, using smartphones or other portable devices, adding a new dimension to the gaming experience.

The Convergence of Cloud Gaming and 5G

The transformative moment in the gaming industry occurs with the convergence of cloud gaming and 5G cellular service. The enhanced connectivity provided by 5G is instrumental in overcoming one of the key challenges of cloud gaming: latency. As 5G continues to roll out globally, it is poised to make cloud gaming the undisputed future of gaming, offering unprecedented flexibility, accessibility, and a truly immersive gaming experience.

Understanding Latency Challenges in Mobile Cloud Gaming

The dynamic landscape of cloud gaming introduces challenges related to network latency, throughput, and the upgrading of mobile networks. System latency, the delay between input and on-screen movement, becomes perceptible in cloud gaming due to the shift from local connections to internet-based platforms.

Mobile cloud gaming requires stable latency between 40 to 80 ms for a smooth gaming experience. Throughput, particularly on smartphones, plays a significant role, with baseline requirements starting at 15 Mbps for optimal resolution and frame rates.

Addressing Network Latency

The distance between end users and server locations significantly affects network latency. To mitigate this challenge, distributed servers situated closer to users can be instrumental. Placing servers within a service provider’s network provides optimal control over traffic. The integration of 5G technology, coupled with higher frequency bands, contributes to improving latency, laying the groundwork for an enhanced gaming experience. The evolution towards 5G Standalone (5G SA) and network slicing further refines the latency dynamics, promising a future where cloud gaming is seamlessly integrated into the on-the-go gaming experience.

The Role of L4S in Improving Latency

The Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable Throughput (L4S) standard emerges as a crucial component in addressing latency challenges in cloud gaming. By reducing packet queuing congestion in networks, L4S introduces a setting within packets to adjust traffic flow immediately in the presence of congestion, minimizing buffering delays to single-digit milliseconds. While not yet widely adopted, major networking and ISP companies are involved in its development, paving the way for a more reliable and enjoyable cloud gaming experience.

Adoption and Collaboration for the Future

Though L4S adoption is in its early stages, major players like Comcast, Nokia, and Vodafone have been actively involved in its development. Trials conducted by Comcast with industry giants like Apple, Nvidia, and Valve showcase the commitment to advancing networking standards. Apple’s beta support for L4S in iOS 16 and macOS Sonoma, with plans for wider support in iOS 17, signals a positive trajectory for the adoption of this standard.

As the gaming industry charts its course over 5G networks, the integration of cloud gaming and advancements like L4S is pivotal for unlocking the full potential of on-the-go gaming. The collaboration between industry leaders, the adoption of innovative standards, and the ongoing evolution of 5G technology promise a future where gamers can enjoy a seamless and immersive experience, breaking down barriers and redefining the landscape of interactive entertainment.

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An In-Depth Exploration of Cellular Signal Boosters

In an era where staying connected is paramount, weak cellular signals can be a frustrating hindrance. Enter the signal booster, also known as a wireless repeater, a system designed to amplify and extend the reach of your cellular connection. In this article, we will delve into the anatomy of a signal booster, unraveling its components and shedding light on how these devices work. Additionally, we will explore how to determine if a signal booster is the solution for your connectivity woes.

The Components of a Signal Booster

  1. Exterior Antenna: The exterior antenna serves as the first line of defense, capturing the weak cellular signal in your area. Placed ideally outside and at an elevated point, away from obstructions like buildings, it seeks to optimize signal strength and bandwidth speeds. Selecting the right location through a site survey is crucial to achieving a delicate balance between signal strength, signal quality, and speed.
  2. Amplifier: The amplifier, often referred to as the heart of the repeater system, is responsible for boosting the incoming signal. Acting like a powerhouse, the amplifier enhances the signal’s strength, preparing it for rebroadcast. Some have adjustable gain control dials that provide flexibility, allowing users to fine-tune the system for optimal performance. Careful consideration of frequency usage helps avoid interference, ensuring a seamless boost without unwanted noise.
  3. Interior Antenna: Attached to the other side of the amplifier, the interior antenna plays a vital role in rebroadcasting the boosted cellular signal throughout the designated area. Careful placement is key; a central location that aligns with your primary device usage is recommended. Striking the right balance is crucial, as placing the interior antenna too close to the exterior one can lead to oscillation, similar to interference between walkie-talkies.
  4. Cabling: The unsung hero of the system, cabling connects the antennas to the amplifier. A delicate balance is essential, ensuring enough cable length for required antenna separation without introducing additional signal loss. While cables are typically included with booster kits, you may opt for different lengths as needed. Well-chosen cables contribute to the overall efficiency of the signal booster system. 

How Signal Boosters Work

The process begins with the exterior antenna capturing the existing cellular signal. This signal is then passed to the amplifier, which magnifies its strength. The boosted signal is subsequently transmitted wirelessly by the interior antenna, covering an area with improved signal strength. Any cellular device within this zone benefits from enhanced connectivity, potentially leading to faster speeds and a more reliable connection.

Is a Signal Booster Right for You?

Determining whether a signal booster is the solution for your connectivity needs involves a thoughtful assessment of your location. Perform a site survey to identify areas with a favorable combination of signal strength, quality, and speed. Additionally, find a location inside where you need to either bring a signal to, or where you mainly use your cellular devices. If weak signals are plaguing your daily activities, a signal booster could be the key to unlocking a stronger, more reliable connection.

For assistance, reach out to the 5Gstore sales team. We’ll help explain the site survey process, if it applies to your application, and go over your results to determine what equipment would be best. If you’re ready to start exploring booster solutions on your own, use our helpful guide.

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How Much Data Do You Need to Stream this Winter Season?

Data Usage can add up quickly, especially streaming all those videos around the holidays.  Monitoring data usage and tracking it can be done in a couple ways, but you can also get a general idea of usage before you even start. This can be important for ensuring you don’t go over any usage limits or reach your allotted high speed data before the month is over. 

We only covered some of the most popular streaming services. If you don’t see yours listed, we also offer a handy data usage calculator you can use at our website. 

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon has no public information for streaming data usage at this time. However, based on user reports:

  • SD videos use about 0.45 GB per hour
  • HD uses about 2.25 GB per hour
  • Ultra HD/ 4K uses about 6GB per hour 

Apple TV+

  • SD (480p) uses about 0.7 GB per hour
  • HD (720p) uses up to 2.5 GB per hour
  • HD (1080p) uses up to 3 GB per hour
  • UHD (4K) uses about 8 GB per hour

Disney+

Disney+ automatically detects your system’s capabilities and internet connection speed and delivers the highest quality experience possible as a default setting. They also give you the choice to change your data usage settings on all devices. With the Auto option, you can stream in the highest quality, up to what your device supports. 

For example: 

  • SD uses about 0.7GB per hour
  • HD uses up to 2GB per hour 
  • 4K uses around 7.7GB per hour

Hulu

HD video streaming will use about 1.35 GB per hour while 4K runs up to 7.2 GB per hour. Data usage controls are NOT available, nor is an official data chart, but this data is based on user forums and Hulu’s recommendations. Hulu also has quality control settings, which can help with data usage. 

Max

There’s no specific data on this, but the application automatically adjusts the video quality based on your network bandwidth and connection speed. They suggest having a minimum of 5 Mbps for HD content and 50 Mbps for 4K! Thankfully, most shows and movies are available in HD. With these recommendations you’d use around 2.25 GB per hour for HD and 22.5 GB per hour for 4K. 

Netflix

Netflix offers video settings, which can help with usage. While using auto might be best for most users, those concerned with usage may consider lowering the quality to accommodate.  

  • Standard-definition (SD) video streaming on Netflix uses 1 GB of data each hour.
  • High-definition streaming will consume 3 GB of bandwidth per hour.
  • 4K videos use 7 GB of data every hour.

Paramount+

Per their Help guide – When not on a Wi-Fi network, mobile data use will fluctuate based on the quality of your Internet connection and varies from 1GB per hour for standard definition, and up to 11GB per hour for the highest quality video stream.

Peacock

The service recommends a minimum download speed of 2.5 Mbps for streaming in HD. Based on this, you would use approximately 1.1 GB per hour.

YouTube

  • 720p: 1.1 GB per hour
  • 1080p: 2.25 GB per hour
  • 4K: up to 9 GB per hour

Happy Streaming!

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The Rise of Private Cellular Networking and the Transition from WiFi

Did you know that according to the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), as of February 2023 there are at least 1077 organizations in 74 countries that have deployed LTE or 5G private cellular networks? This includes the National Football League (NFL), which tested private cellular networks during five games in 2022. The success of this trial led the NFL to announce its intention to deploy private cellular network solutions across all 30 NFL stadiums for the 2023 season and beyond, setting the stage for a new era in wireless communication.

Private 5G and LTE Networks: Unlocking the Potential

Private 5G and LTE networks, akin to traditional public cellular networks but managed on-premises by enterprises, are emerging as a primary wide-area LAN solution for countless businesses. Unlike public networks, private networks offer enterprises unparalleled control over data use, access, and more, providing a significant advantage over conventional LAN solutions.

Consider an underground facility, such as a mine, seeking to streamline operations using IoT. With a private network solution, the mine gains the ability to customize coverage, control data costs, and prioritize data traffic, overcoming the limitations associated with public cellular or WiFi solutions. Private networks boast economies of scale, with a single cellular access point covering the same area as nearly 12 WiFi access points, offering unmatched flexibility for both indoor and outdoor deployments.

WiFi vs. Private Networks

While WiFi remains a crucial tool in the LAN toolkit, private cellular networks and WiFi often complement each other in diverse environments. In manufacturing facilities, for instance, private cellular networks excel in providing guaranteed latency, throughput, and predictability on the factory floor, while WiFi seamlessly connects devices in other areas of the building. The ability of private networks to automatically select the best client for each device and offer inherent security through 3GPP standards and SIM-based security adds a layer of sophistication not easily achieved with WiFi.

In assessing the landscape of private LTE/5G versus WiFi, it becomes evident that each technology comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s delve into the key metrics for comparison:

1. Speed/Bandwidth: Private 5G stands out as the fastest, with LTE following closely behind, offering competitive speeds compared to WiFi.

2. Latency: Private 5G boasts the lowest latency, measured in milliseconds, followed by LTE with a round-trip latency of 30 milliseconds. WiFi, on the other hand, exhibits the highest latency, reaching up to 500 milliseconds.

3. Congestion & Interference: WiFi operates in an open, shared, unlicensed spectrum, leading to congestion and signal interference. In contrast, private LTE and 5G leverage centralized orchestration to prevent interference, especially with the use of private spectrum options like CBRS.

4. Density/Capacity: WiFi is designed for smaller-scale use, suitable for homes or small offices. Private LTE/5G, designed for high-capacity commercial and industrial use, becomes a game-changer for larger enterprises covering vast distances.

5. Coverage: WiFi offers short-range coverage, typically up to 5K sq ft per radio, while LTE and 5G leverage greater power levels to cover large areas, reaching up to 25K sq ft indoors and up to 1M sq ft outdoors with a private LTE access point.

6. Mobility: WiFi relies on individual devices to make handover decisions, whereas LTE/5G facilitates centralized coordination for seamless handoffs, ideal for highly mobile devices.

7. Scalability: LTE/5G’s capability to cover large areas makes it more economical for wireless coverage across expansive facilities, reducing the need for numerous access points and streamlining installation.

8. Quality of Service: Private LTE/5G offers built-in quality of service mechanisms, prioritizing high-value data for specific applications and enforcing throughput, latency, and packet error rate service levels.

9. Security: WiFi’s open spectrum is susceptible to hacking, while private LTE and 5G networks ensure security with authorized SIM cards, creating a secure-by-default environment and eliminating the risk of unauthorized access.

Moving from WiFi to Private Networks: Navigating the Learning Curve

For IT professionals accustomed to managing WiFi networks, the transition to private cellular networks may seem daunting. However, the learning curve largely depends on the size and setup of the network, and many IT teams find it manageable with a basic understanding of LANs and wireless networking. Managed service providers (MSPs) can further ease the transition by offering ongoing third-party support, and the integration of AI in network management promises to simplify the process further.

Fueling Future Innovations with Private 5G Networks

Enterprises view private 5G networks as a strategic investment in future technology, leveraging 5G’s capabilities to power innovations across various sectors. Warehouses, factories, ports, and more are already testing private 5G use cases, including HD video surveillance with AI recognition, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and predictive equipment maintenance. Private 5G networks allow for controlled and prioritized access, improved battery life, further reach, network slicing, and other benefits that fuel the development of new applications.

A Secure, Efficient, and Scalable Future

The days of proving the value of private cellular networks are behind us. These networks have become the bedrock of secure, efficient, and scalable connectivity, offering undeniable advantages such as reduced latency, improved network management, and enhanced data protection in today’s high-threat landscape. As private networks mature, their role in shaping the future of connectivity becomes increasingly evident, providing enterprises with the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.

If you’re looking for a private cellular solution for your business, check out just a few options below and reach out to the 5Gstore sales team for assistance!

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5G Networks: Non-Standalone vs. Standalone

Perhaps you’ve heard of something called 5G? Who hasn’t at this point? We’ve even talked about the different names for 5G when it comes to the cellular carriers – i.e. Verizon’s Ultra Wideband 5G or T-Mobile’s Ultra Capacity 5G. However, what you may not know are what the terms SA and NSA used along with 5G mean. These are the two types of 5G and is what we’re going to look at in this blog. 

5G NSA Networks: Bridging the Transition

Non-Standalone 5G networks serve as a transitional phase in the global rollout of fifth-generation cellular technology. Leveraging a hybrid approach, these networks combine a 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) with a 4G LTE core network. This hybridization enables a gradual deployment of 5G, allowing operators to upgrade their RANs before progressing to core network enhancements. Nearly all major global network operators adopted this method, providing a faster transition to 5G than a standalone approach.

Key Characteristics of 5G NSA Networks:

  1. Introduction of New Spectrums: NSA networks boost capacity and delivery efficiency by introducing new 5G spectrums.
  2. Maximization of LTE Base: These networks maximize the use of existing LTE infrastructure, facilitating a smoother transition.
  3. LTE Anchor Requirement: Control plane communication and mobility management depend on LTE anchors within NSA networks.
  4. 5G Evolved Packet Core: The presence of a 5G Evolved Packet Core enables advanced functionalities like video streaming, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and immersive media experiences.
  5. Opportunities for New Use Cases: NSA networks open doors to innovative use cases such as Critical IoT, expanding the possibilities of connected devices.

5G SA Networks: Unleashing the Full Potential

In contrast, Standalone 5G networks represent the pinnacle of 5G evolution. With end-to-end networks boasting 5G cores, SA networks fully realize the benefits of 5G, including ultra-low latency, massive capacity, faster speeds, heightened security, and improved reliability. Importantly, SA networks provide access to all three key 5G service categories: Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra-Reliable and Low Latency Communications (URLLC), and Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC).

Key Characteristics of 5G SA Networks:

  1. Target 5G Architecture: SA networks offer a simplified Radio Access Network (RAN) and device architecture, aligning with the ultimate vision of 5G.
  2. Cloud-Native 5G Core: The introduction of a new cloud-native 5G Core enhances network capabilities, paving the way for advanced services.
  3. Ultra-Low Latency and High Reliability: SA networks deliver ultra-low latency and high reliability, crucial for applications requiring real-time responsiveness.
  4. Enhanced Security: Features like end-to-end encryption and network slicing enhance security, ensuring the integrity of data transmission.
  5. Same 5G Coverage for Low Band: SA networks are the only option providing consistent 5G coverage across low bands, ensuring a seamless transition from legacy systems.

How 5G SA Supports Network Slicing

One of the groundbreaking features of 5G SA networks is the ability to support network slicing. This functionality becomes particularly powerful when 5G routers align with current chipsets. Network slicing involves dividing the network into logical and independent slices, each aligned with the service categories of 5G. These slices can be tailored to meet diverse application needs, supporting public safety and catering to unique enterprise requirements.

Navigating the Future of 5G

In the dynamic landscape of 5G, the choice between NSA and SA networks holds strategic significance for service providers. While NSA networks provide a pragmatic stepping stone for early adoption, SA networks unlock the full potential of 5G, offering a comprehensive suite of features and capabilities. However, as the industry marches towards the future of hyper-connectivity, it is imperative to acknowledge and address potential challenges associated with the evolution of SA 5G networks. These challenges may include infrastructure costs, interoperability issues, and the need for substantial investments in technology upgrades. Nevertheless, overcoming these hurdles will be crucial to realizing the transformative benefits that SA 5G promises, ensuring that the transition to the next generation of cellular networks is not only seamless but also sustainable in the face of emerging complexities.

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Peplink’s Integration with Starlink

With the advent of satellite internet services like Starlink, users are now able to access high-speed internet in remote areas. Peplink, a leader in SD-WAN solutions, has taken a significant step in supporting Starlink connectivity, offering users a robust set of tools to monitor and manage their connection seamlessly.

Monitoring Starlink Dish Status

One of the key advantages of Peplink’s support for Starlink is the ability to easily access crucial dish status information. Through InControl 2, Peplink’s cloud management service, users can gain insights into metrics such as throughput, latency, and obstruction status. This invaluable data empowers users to optimize their internet experience and troubleshoot any potential issues with ease.

Reboot and Stow with a Click

InControl 2 provides a user-friendly interface to reboot and stow your Starlink device effortlessly. No more manual interventions or complex procedures – a simple click through InControl 2 allows you to perform these actions remotely. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to ensure optimal performance or temporarily disable their Starlink connection.

Enabling Access: A Step-by-Step Guide

To harness the full potential of Peplink’s support for Starlink, follow these steps to enable access and view your dish’s data:

  • Web Administration of Peplink Router:
    • Navigate to the Network tab and select WAN on the left.
    • Scroll to the bottom of the page and edit the “Starlink” setting.
  • Pairing Starlink Connection with WAN Source:
    • Pair the Starlink connection with a WAN source on your router.
    • Save and apply the changes.
  • Verification:
    • Once completed, a Starlink logo will appear beside the paired WAN connection.
  • InControl 2 Configuration:
    • Log into InControl 2 and locate the organization and group where your Peplink router is saved.
    • Click on the device to access its details page.
  • Accessing Starlink Details:
    • In the Status section on the right, click “Details” beside your Starlink WAN connection.

By following these steps, you can unlock a wealth of information about your Starlink connection, ensuring you have the necessary tools to maintain and optimize your internet experience.

Conclusion

Peplink’s support for Starlink marks a significant stride in providing users with comprehensive control over their internet connectivity. The ability to monitor throughput, latency, and obstruction status, coupled with the convenience of remote reboot and stow functions, makes Peplink routers an ideal choice for users harnessing the power of Starlink. Embrace the future of satellite internet with Peplink’s innovative solutions, where control and accessibility are just a click away.

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Is My Service Provider Throttling Me?

We all know that a stable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for both work and leisure. Many users, however, find themselves questioning the consistency of their internet speeds. A common concern that arises is whether their internet service provider (ISP) is intentionally slowing down their connection, a practice known as throttling. In this blog, we’ll explore the intricacies of throttling, debunk some common misconceptions, and shed light on the factors that might be affecting your internet speeds.

Throttling is a technique employed across an entire network and would typically affect hundreds of customers simultaneously. So, if you are experiencing slow internet speeds as the sole user in your household or office, it’s less likely that your carrier is throttling you. However, ISPs have alternative methods to manage network traffic and bandwidth, such as Traffic Shaping, which can impact individual users.

Understanding Throttling and Traffic Shaping

Throttling, in its strict sense, involves deliberately slowing down the internet speeds of all users on a network. This is often done by ISPs to manage network congestion during peak hours or to ensure fair usage among all customers. While throttling is a real phenomenon, it usually affects multiple users at once, rather than just one individual.

On the other hand, Traffic Shaping is a process by which ISPs control the flow of data for individual users. This can result in reduced bandwidth for specific users, especially if they are consuming a large amount of data or have surpassed their monthly plan limits. Unlike throttling, Traffic Shaping is more targeted and can impact single users based on their network behavior.

Factors Affecting Internet Speeds

  • Network Congestion: Throttling is often implemented during peak usage times when the network experiences congestion. However, individual users might still face slower speeds due to the overall strain on the network.
  • Monthly Data Usage: ISPs may reduce bandwidth for specific users who exceed their monthly data limits. It’s essential to monitor your data usage and choose a plan that aligns with your needs to avoid potential speed reductions.
  • Paid Prioritization: This is a financial arrangement whereby a company pays an ISP to have their data prioritized above other data on the network, like a fast lane. In 2018, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) overturned existing net neutrality laws and legalized paid prioritization. 
  • Technical Issues: Sometimes, slow internet speeds can be attributed to technical problems such as faulty equipment, outdated routers (hardware or firmware), or issues with the ISP’s infrastructure. Regularly checking and maintaining your hardware can help ensure optimal performance.

Stay Informed

In conclusion, while the term “throttling” is commonly used to describe intentional slowing down of internet speeds, the reality is more nuanced. If you are experiencing slow speeds as the sole user, it’s more likely a result of factors like network congestion or individual bandwidth management through Traffic Shaping.

To ensure a smooth internet experience, it’s crucial to stay informed about your plan’s data limits, monitor your monthly usage, and address any technical issues promptly. If speed issues persist, reaching out to your ISP’s customer support for assistance and clarification is a recommended step.

Remember, a well-informed user is better equipped to navigate the complexities of internet connectivity and make the most out of their online experience.

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Bonding and High Availability for Mission Critical Connectivity

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, achieving uninterrupted connectivity is no longer a mere aspiration but a mission critical priority. Organizations today heavily rely on seamless communication and efficient data transfer to execute essential operations and make informed decisions. In this pursuit, cutting-edge technologies play a pivotal role, and among them, Bonding stands out as a key solution for not only achieving but also enhancing mission critical connectivity.

The Importance of Mission Critical Connectivity

Industries such as healthcare, finance, emergency services, and manufacturing require a level of connectivity that transcends the ordinary. Mission critical connectivity serves as the backbone, ensuring that essential operations remain uninterrupted. This capability enables businesses to respond swiftly to challenges, make real-time decisions, and maintain optimal performance, thereby securing their competitive edge.

Understanding Bonding Technology

Peplink, a player in the field of networking solutions, introduces innovative technologies that go beyond traditional connectivity boundaries. A standout feature is its bonding technology, SpeedFusion, which does more than aggregate multiple internet connections. This technology forms a single, robust pipeline, incorporating a layer of redundancy. In the event of a connection failure, Peplink’s technology seamlessly transitions to alternate connections, preventing downtime and ensuring continuous operations.

Digi, another popular source for a variety of networking solutions, offers Digi WAN Bonding technology. This works similarly, utilizing seamless failover and WAN smoothing with packet duplication. Of course it also increases bandwidth by combining speeds between multiple Internet connections. 

To increase throughput or availability of applications, two or more connections are used. These can be any combination of fixed network or wireless connections — fiber, DSL, Wi-Fi, cellular, satellite, etc. This proves indispensable for applications where mission critical connectivity is non-negotiable.

Implementing Mission Critical Connectivity with Bonding Technology

  1. Redundancy and Reliability:
    • Bonding technology provides redundancy by combining multiple connections, offering a failover mechanism that ensures continuous connectivity even if one link experiences issues.
  2. Increased Bandwidth:
    • Bonding technology not only enhances reliability but also significantly boosts bandwidth. This empowers businesses to handle large volumes of data and support bandwidth-intensive applications without compromising performance.
  3. Flexibility and Adaptability:
    • Both Peplink and Digi Bonding technologies demonstrate remarkable flexibility and adaptability. Whether in an urban office setting or a remote field operation, these solutions provide consistent connectivity, catering to diverse business environments.
  4. Cybersecurity:
    • Prioritizing cybersecurity, both Peplink and Digi Bonding technologies ensure the secure transmission of data over the network. This is particularly crucial for businesses dealing with sensitive information, such as those in healthcare or finance.

Understanding High Availability Mode

High Availability mode, also known as HA mode, goes beyond conventional bonding technologies by introducing a sophisticated hardware redundancy feature. This innovative mechanism empowers a designated slave unit within the Local Area Network (LAN) to seamlessly assume the master unit’s role upon detecting a failure. The result is a proactive approach to preventing downtime, ensuring that crucial operations remain unaffected even in the event of unforeseen challenges.

HA Failover Mechanism Explained

The transition from master to slave unit within HA mode hinges on the implementation of the Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP). VRRP orchestrates a failover process by initiating a heartbeat from the master device, configured as the router. In the absence of this heartbeat—indicative of a potential failure—the router configured as the slave seamlessly steps in to take over the master’s role. This sophisticated failover mechanism proves invaluable in scenarios such as hardware failures or disconnections of the router with the master role from the LAN.

Navigating the Future of Mission Critical Connectivity

In the ongoing quest for mission critical connectivity, Peplink SpeedFusion and Digi WAN Bonding technology prove to be indispensable tools for businesses. By embracing these solutions and incorporating High Availability mode for added redundancy, organizations can not only enhance reliability but also ensure seamless operations in an increasingly connected world. As businesses continue to evolve, investing in such robust connectivity solutions becomes not just a strategic choice but a necessity for sustained success in today’s competitive landscape.

Want to learn more? Reach out to the 5Gstore sales team for assistance finding your perfect solution!

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