Tag: Router

Understanding Firewalls: The Key to Network Security

In today’s digital age, network security is more important than ever. With the rise of cyber threats such as malware, phishing, and ransomware, it’s essential to have robust security measures in place to protect your organization’s data and network resources. One such measure is a firewall.

What is a firewall?

A firewall is a network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on a set of predefined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a trusted, internal network and an untrusted, external network, such as the internet.

Firewalls can be implemented as hardware devices, software programs, or a combination of both. They typically work by examining the data packets that are being transmitted between networks and applying predefined rules to determine whether or not the packets should be allowed through. These rules can be based on various criteria, such as the source and destination IP addresses, the type of traffic (e.g. HTTP, FTP, etc.), and specific keywords or patterns in the data.

Why is a firewall important?

One of the key benefits of using a firewall is that it helps to protect a network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. By blocking potentially harmful traffic and limiting access to certain network resources, a firewall can prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to sensitive data or disrupting network operations.

Firewalls can also be used to enforce corporate security policies and ensure regulatory compliance. For example, a firewall can be configured to block access to websites that are known to be sources of malware or other security threats, or to limit access to certain types of data to only authorized users.

Types of firewalls

There are several types of firewalls that are commonly used, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:

  • Packet-filtering firewalls: These firewalls examine individual packets of data as they are transmitted across a network and filter them based on specific criteria. Packet-filtering firewalls are relatively simple and efficient, but they may not provide sufficient protection against more sophisticated attacks.
  • Stateful inspection firewalls: These firewalls maintain a record of the connections that are being established between different network devices and use this information to make more informed decisions about which traffic to allow or block. Stateful inspection firewalls provide a higher level of security than packet-filtering firewalls, but they may be more resource-intensive.
  • Proxy firewalls: These firewalls act as an intermediary between a client and a server, and can be configured to filter and modify network traffic as it passes through. Proxy firewalls provide a high level of control over network traffic, but they may introduce additional latency and complexity into the network.
  • Next-generation firewalls: These firewalls combine traditional firewall functionality with additional security features such as intrusion prevention, malware detection, and application control. Next-generation firewalls provide the highest level of security, but they may be more expensive and complex to implement.

Choosing the right firewall

Choosing the right type of firewall for your organization depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of your network, the types of applications and data that you need to protect, and your budget and resource constraints.

It’s also important to configure your firewall properly to ensure that it provides maximum protection against cyber threats. This includes regularly updating your firewall software and security rules, monitoring network traffic for unusual activity, and conducting regular security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Firewalls are an essential component of any network security strategy. They help to protect against unauthorized access and malicious attacks by monitoring and controlling network traffic based on predefined security rules. By choosing the right type of firewall for your network and configuring it properly, you can help to keep your organization’s data and network resources secure.

Need help finding a firewall with cellular connectivity? Look no further than 5Gstore.com. Our team is available to assist Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm CT by phone, email, or chat!

By 5G , , ,

Cellular Routers vs Cell Phone Hotspots: What to Use for Business Failover

Businesses depend on reliable and stable internet connections to operate efficiently. In the event of a primary internet outage, having a backup solution is essential to minimize downtime and maintain productivity. Two common solutions for business failover are using a cell phone hotspot or a cellular router. While both provide a connection to a cellular network for Internet access, they do not offer the same benefits. We’d like to take a closer look at each of these solutions and compare their pros and cons. 

Cell Phone Hotspot

A cell phone hotspot is a feature offered by most modern smartphones and cellular providers. They allow you to share your device’s cellular data connection with other devices via WiFi. This option is convenient and easy to use, especially for single users (like remote workers) or small businesses with minimal internet needs. Pros of using a cell phone hotspot for business failover include:

  • Portability: A cell phone hotspot can be used anywhere and is easy to transport, making it ideal for remote workers or businesses that require frequent travel.
  • Affordability: A cell phone hotspot is a low-cost alternative to a cellular router, especially if the device is already owned by the business. Most carriers also include hotspot services with your data plan. 
  • Ease of use: To operate the hotspot on your phone, you simply need to turn it on, then turn it off when you’re done. There’s really nothing to it unless you want to adjust its name or password. 

Cons of using a cell phone hotspot for business failover include:

  • Availability: Hotspots are not meant for 24/7 use. Keep in mind that this is someone’s cell phone, so they will take it home when they leave the office. This makes it impossible to run any hardware like security cameras. They are also battery powered. You can keep them plugged in 24/7 to avoid losing power, but this shortens the battery life. 
  • Accessibility: If you have a shared printer and files on your primary network, these items will not be accessible. This is because your computer will be connected to the cell phone hotspot network. 
  • Failover: When your primary Internet connection fails, you will need to manually switch all critical devices to the hotspot, creating some additional downtime. 
  • Limited data & bandwidth: Most cell phone plans offer limited data allowances, which can be quickly exhausted by multiple devices connecting to the hotspot.
  • Limited User Support: Hotspots can usually only support up to 15 devices and only wireless connections. There are no Ethernet ports available for wired connections. 
  • Limited WiFi Range: The wireless range from hotspots are normally limited to 30ft or less. This can be even more degraded when you have interference in the environment. 
  • Limited interoperability: Some users may opt to use their hotspot with a WiFi as WAN router (or tethered to a router with USB WAN port) that can extend their WiFi range and user support. However, this can create issues with some applications working properly. If possible, it’s best to put the hotspot into a bridge/ passthrough mode, but this is not normally a supported feature on hotspots.
  • Unreliability: The reliability of a cell phone hotspot can vary depending on the location and network coverage. They also do not have external antenna ports to help with signal strength. All of this makes it unsuitable for businesses that require a consistent internet connection. 
  • Security risks: Sharing your cell phone’s internet connection with other devices can pose security risks, especially if sensitive data is transmitted.

Cellular Router

A cellular router is a standalone device that connects to the internet via a cellular network. This option is ideal for any user, but is generally used by businesses with more complex internet needs and larger teams. Pros of using a cellular router for business failover include:

  • Reliability: Cellular routers are designed to provide a consistent and stable internet connection, making them ideal for businesses that require close to 24/7 uptime.
  • Failover: Cellular routers can sometimes connect with your primary Internet connection and provide automatic failover between connections. This means all your devices (critical and non-critical) can be connected to the same network, if needed. You don’t have to manually switch devices from your primary to backup network. 
  • Bandwidth: Cellular routers can handle more data and support several devices, making them suitable for larger businesses.
  • Security: Cellular routers come with built-in security features to protect your network and data from threats.
  • Antenna Connections: Most cell phones do not have external antenna connections, but routers generally do. This makes it easier to increase signal strength and quality directly to the device. 

Cons of using a cellular router for business failover include:

  • Cost: Cellular routers are more expensive than cell phone hotspots.
  • Complexity: Cellular routers can be more complex to set up and manage, especially for small businesses with limited IT resources.
  • Size: Routers are usually larger in size and will require constant power for 24/7 use. 

As you can now see, the choice between using a cell phone hotspot or a cellular router for business failover will depend on the specific needs of your business. For remote workers, travelers and small businesses with minimal internet needs, a cell phone hotspot may be a suitable and affordable option. Hotspots are great for temporary use and provide a simple failover solution. For larger businesses with complex internet requirements, a cellular router may be the better choice for its reliability, bandwidth, and security features. However, either solution could be suitable for many applications, so it’s important to consider the differences.

Should you need assistance with determining your ideal solution, reach out to our team by phone, email, or chat! 

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How to Find a Cellular Failover Solution for Home Office/ Remote Work

When it comes to failover Internet connections, any type of Internet service can be used to backup another. However, due to the reliability of a cellular Internet connection, this is typically the recommended service type. Since the service comes through wirelessly from cell towers, it is less prone to service outages. Unlike wired services, which are run underground in most cases and can easily be broken. 

If you require Internet service in order to work remotely from home or run a home office, then you should consider a failover connection. This can be quite an overwhelming process when you first get started. We hope this article will help guide you through. 

Selecting a Cellular Provider 

Another benefit of cellular services is that they are quick and easy to install. Some users will start by contacting the same service provider as they use on their cell phones. This is an easy way to verify where you have coverage. If needed, check coverage maps from other providers to compare. 

Also think about whether you need 4G LTE or 5G service. Currently, the fastest 5G service is limited to small areas within large cities. Other 5G services will provide similar performance as 4G LTE, so it’s worth verifying this with the carrier if it’s not clearly defined on their map. You may also want to look into how much bandwidth your common applications use. This will help determine how much bandwidth speed you need from the cellular provider. 

Keep in mind that in any case, cellular bandwidth speeds are variable. They will differ with regards to the frequency band(s) your cellular router is connected to, along with its signal strength and quality. Other factors such as the user load on the cell tower you’re connecting to can also affect your speeds. The best approach is to place the cellular router in a part of your location where signal and speeds are most stable. If you find the only place like that is outside, an external antenna can always be added. 

Purchasing a Data Plan

Once you’ve decided on a cellular provider to use for your home office or remote work, you’ll need to purchase a data plan. If you have coverage from multiple providers, check with each to compare what data plans are offered. These plans will typically differ with how much data they allow you to use over the course of a month, as well as the price. If you’re not sure how much that is, you can utilize our data usage calculator to assist. We’ve also outlined typical usage for common applications such as VoIP, Video Calls, and VPN to help you determine how much data you may need. 

You’ll find that in most cases usage required for your most important applications can be well under 1 GB of data. This is the amount of data that 5Gstore includes with their current failover plans. Any additional data used will be priced at $10 per 1 GB. For more information, check out our Data Plans here. 

Finding an Appropriate Failover Router

The cellular provider will give you an activated SIM card along with the data plan. This will be inserted into the cellular router. What do you need to look for exactly? Are there any specific features you need like VPN or QoS support? What about the hardware – do you need a certain number of Ethernet ports? Use our router advisor to help narrow down the options. 

Have you selected a cellular provider to use? If so, do they have 5G service in your location? Even if they do, is it necessary to use your applications successfully? As we stated earlier, determining how much bandwidth speed your applications require will help answer this. 

Consider how you might limit your data usage when on your failover connection. This is easiest when you push only your mission critical devices/ applications (e.g. your VoIP phone and computer) over the failover connection. This can be possible by keeping your failover network separate from your primary one. 

Or, you may opt for a multi-WAN router that takes both connections and handles the failover itself. These routers usually support load balancing rules, which can also help with managing usage. Load balancing differs between router manufacturers, but generally speaking, it allows you to send specific connections over a single Internet service as needed. For example, you can have your VoIP setup to connect to either your primary or failover service while all other devices/ applications can only use your primary service. 

Where to Start?

Whether you’re looking for a separate failover router or something that can connect to both your primary and failover connections, here are some popular solutions:

Contact the experts at 5Gstore (phone, email, or chat) for assistance with finding the appropriate router and failover plan for your needs. 

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How Can a Cellular Failover Help My Business?

Cellular routers are a type of networking device that allows you to connect to the internet using a cellular network rather than a traditional wired connection like cable or DSL. They are often used as a backup or failover option for businesses and organizations that need a reliable internet connection as frequently as possible. This would be because they may not have access to a stable wired connection, and cannot afford much downtime.

There are several benefits to using a cellular router for failover:

  • Reliability: Cellular networks are generally more reliable than wired connections, especially in areas where the wired infrastructure can be damaged or not yet installed.
  • Flexibility: Cellular routers can be used in any location with a cellular signal, making them a great option for businesses that need to be able to connect from any location
  • Cost-effective: In many cases, cellular data plans are more cost-effective than traditional wired internet plans. While prices can vary, wired services like cable or fiber can generally cost around $100 to $300. In comparison, many cellular data plans are around $25 to $100. 
  • Easy setup: Cellular routers are easy to set up and don’t require any special infrastructure or installation. They can be up and running in less than a day. 

WHAT IS FAILOVER?

Failover is a mechanism that allows a device to automatically switch to another network connection when its primary connection, such as a wired or wireless internet connection, becomes unavailable. This ensures that the device can continue to function and access the internet even if the primary connection is lost or disrupted. The goal of failover is to minimize disruption and maintain the availability of the system as much as possible.

Failover systems can be configured in a variety of ways. It can either be a totally automatic switch between WAN connections, or more of a manual switch between networks. Routers that provide automatic failover will support multiple WAN connections rather than just one. They will have some sort of automatic check in place to verify if the Internet connection is up or down. These checks allow the router to detect the outage of a connection and then switch to another available WAN connection that it has also verified is up or online. Aside from a possible difference in bandwidth, it’s likely you won’t notice the failure with these routers. 

Manual failover is going to be similar to using a single primary WAN connection through any router. Once a user detects the connection is down, they will need to manually switch their connection from the router that has failed, to one that is online. While this is not ideal for all users, it can certainly be more affordable. 

There are also multi-WAN, failover routers that support different manners in which failover operates. Normally, when a higher priority WAN connection is established, the backup connections are in an active, but passive state. While they are ready to connect, they do not actually establish a connection until the higher priority fails. This is also known as a cold standby state. 

The backup connections can also be in a completely active state where they are connected at the same time as the higher priority WAN. Traffic may or may not be routed over the backup while the primary WAN is connected – unless you’re using load balancing. This is what we typically call a hot standby state. The backup is already connected to the Internet and therefore the failover switch is much faster. 

Overall, failover systems are an important component of a robust and reliable network. They help to ensure that the system can continue to function even in the event of a failure.

USING A CELLULAR BACKUP

There are several situations in which cellular failover, in particular, can be useful. If a device is connected to a wireless network and the wireless signal becomes weak or unstable, the device can switch to a cellular connection to maintain a stable internet connection. Cellular failover can also be helpful in areas where wired internet is not available. Or, in cases where the primary internet connection is lost due to a line fault, power outage or other issue.

Cellular failover is often used in business settings, where a stable and reliable internet connection is critical for productivity. It can also be useful for individuals who rely on internet connectivity for important tasks, such as email or online transactions.

In order to use cellular failover, a device must be equipped with a cellular modem and have a cellular data plan in place. This is where the 5Gstore team can assist. We’ll determine which cellular failover router is best for your need. You can then pair it with one of our failover data plans. 

There are many different router solutions you can consider. Some cellular routers are just that. They have a cellular modem built in and allow for local connections via Ethernet and WiFi. They do not support any wired WAN connections and therefore cannot support an automated failover process. For example, the Inseego FX2000e or Inseego Skyus 160. These routers can stand alone. You may also put them into a passthrough mode and connect them to your existing router. For example, you would unplug your primary WAN once it has failed, and replace it with the cellular router’s connection). 

Other routers, like the Peplink Balance 20X, not only support a built-in cellular modem. They also have an Ethernet WAN port where you can connect your primary wired WAN. This will support an automated failover process since both the cellular and Ethernet WAN connections live in the same router. 

SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE ROUTER

The 5Gstore sales team can help to guide you towards the best solution for your needs. However, you’ll need to do a little research yourself as well. Some things to ask yourself include how and where you will be using the router. Are there specific devices that must have close to 24/7 connectivity? Are there devices that can survive without a connection temporarily? 

Keep in mind that there are a few key factors to consider when selecting a cellular failover router:

  • Carrier coverage: Make sure the router is compatible with a carrier that has good coverage in your area. It’s also a good idea to check the carrier’s data plans, their reliability and customer support.
  • Network speeds: Consider the speeds offered by the router and carrier, as well as the router’s ability to handle multiple devices. This is particularly important if you’ll be using the router for business purposes or if you have a lot of devices that need to connect to the internet.
  • Security: Look for a router with robust security features, such as a firewall, VPN support, and encryption. You can rest assured that any router you purchase from the 5Gstore will have all of these features. 
  • Ease of use: Consider the user interface and management tools of the router. You’ll want a router that is easy to set up and manage, particularly if you’re not technically savvy. While the user interfaces differ from one manufacturer to another, our team is trained to provide support for any of the products you purchase. 
  • Cost: Determine your budget and look for a router that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.
  • Brand reputation: Do some research on the brand and read reviews from other users to get a sense of the router’s reliability and customer support.

By considering these factors, you can find a cellular failover router that meets your needs. A solution which provides reliable internet connectivity when your primary internet connection goes down. 

For further information and assistance, please reach out to our team by phone, email, or chat!

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What is the Difference Between Dual SIM and Dual Modem Solutions?

If you’re in the market for a cellular solution for your primary or backup/ failover uses, you might find the number of options overwhelming. There are several factors that go into selecting the appropriate router for any application. One important thing to consider is whether you need a solution with dual SIM card slots or dual modems. Read on to find out more about the differences and how to determine which solution is right for you. 

Dual SIM Modems

This is a single modem that accommodates two total SIM card slots. Since there is only one modem, only one SIM card can be connected to at a time. When two SIM cards are present, and the first SIM card fails to connect, the secondary SIM will take over. Once the first SIM can reconnect, it switches the connection back to this first SIM. Note that the router cannot detect poor performance and failover based on that. If the SIM can connect, it will stay connected until its network connection fails. 

Users with metered data plans may insert SIM cards from the same carrier. Once the first SIM reaches its data limit, a configuration rule tells the router to switch to the secondary SIM card. This rule also tells the router when the data plan has been renewed for the month and switches back to the primary SIM. 

Not only will the modem auto switch between SIM cards, but users have the option to manually switch between the SIM card connections. This is especially helpful in cases where users travel. Having the ability to switch between different carriers allows the user to determine which connection is best for their usage. 

Keep in mind that with only one modem, there is some time lag between the SIMs switching. This process can take a few minutes to complete. If your application cannot afford any downtime, this solution is not the best.

Dual Modem Routers

As it sounds, dual modem routers have two modems, which may each have dual SIM card slots as well. Each modem can be connected at the same time, while also supporting failover to their secondary SIM card slots. This solution has little to no downtime because the modems are already connected to their networks. 

Load balancing is possible with dual modems and along with QoS (Quality of Service) rules you can provide more bandwidth to your most important devices and applications. Alternatively, you may take advantage of SD-WAN functionality. For example, using Peplink’s SpeedFusion technology. Like load balancing, all connections are active simultaneously. The difference is that all connections are combined into one and therefore provide more throughput for your devices. 

So, if you’re looking for nearly 100% uptime, using a dual modem router as a backup for your primary wired Internet connection can give you that. It can also provide you increased bandwidth for those important connections on your network. 

Interested in learning more about which solution is best for your specific needs? Contact our team Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm CST by phone, email, or chat!

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Do I Need A Router That Supports 5G mmWave?

2022 has brought in a lot of great things related to 5G coverage and understanding what this means for us all, and how to maximize on what is available to you now while also prepping for what is still to come.

With the announcement of 5G the conversation has brought up topics about the growing mmWave 5G Frequencies and we want to talk about familiarizing yourself with what products support this that would be great for your application and future proofing.

5G mmWave is an extremely fast 5G that although is still limited in where it can be found, is important to know if it is accessible to you. 

This technology is capable of changing the future!

  • mmWave utilizes the higher frequency radio bands for cellular(24GHz to 40GHz). 
  • If you are in an area capable of connecting to the mmWave, you are in the realm of being able to experience speeds of up to 4-5Gbps. 
    • Consumer speeds are often lower and factors like the line of sight to an mmWave Cell Tower are factors in the speeds you will experience. 
  • Locations where this can be utilized are going to be your major cities like:
    • Los Angeles
    • Denver
    • Phoenix
    • Dallas
    • Houston
    • Chicago
    • Boston
    • New York
    • Atlanta
    • Miami
    • Philadelphia and more

Whether you are in an area that already has mmWave or not, these are still great options as they also have coverage for the 5GSub6 and 4G LTE bands – so you can purchase something to work for what is available to you now and prepare for the mmWave bands at the same time!

How do these products work and what is their main purpose?

  • Great for locations with hard to reach cellular networks
  • Excellent for rooftop mounting and then delivering 5G speeds to a central networking closet for distribution to the rest of the building
  • These routers can fulfill the needs for large scale projects.
Use Case: 
Large Business/Offices
Commercial business
Residential		Use Case: 
Large Business/Offices
Commercial business
Residential
Model: BEA1-40055GB-GN

Front

Back		Model:FW2010e    
Front
Back
Enclosure: 
Metal IP67 Rated		Enclosure:
IP67 rating for water and dust ingress protection and Internal heating element for startup and operation in cold environments
Wi-Fi Standard: 
802.11ax Wi-Fi 6
(installation only)		Wi-Fi Standard: 
N/A
Ethernet Ports: 
2x 2.5 GbE RJ45 (LAN/WAN switchable)		Ethernet Ports: 
1x 5Gbps LAN Port
Downlink/Uplink Datarate: 
Up to 7.53 Gbps*/Up to 1.6 Gbps**

*based on 20 Layers LTE + TDD (100 MHz BW, 256 QAM, 4×4)
**based on 2 Layers LTE + TDD (200 MHz BW, 64 QAM, SISO)

Maximum Throughput:
2 Gbps (Passthrough)		Downlink/Uplink Datarate: 
5Gbps/1.8Gbps*

** Theoretical max download and upload speeds. Actual speeds experienced are dependent on carrier network and coverage.


Maximum Throughput:
5 Gbps
Supported Bands:
5G mmW: n260, n261
5G Sub6: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n38, n40, n41, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78, n79
4G LTE: B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B7, B8, B12, B13, B14, B17, B18, B19, B20, B25, B26, B28, B29, B30, B32, B34, B38, B39, B40, B41, B42, B43, B46, B48, B66, B71
WCDMA: B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, B8, B9, B19		Supported Bands:
5G mmW: n257, n258, n260, n261
5G Sub6: n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n28, n38, n40, n41, n46, n48, n66, n71, n77, n78
4G LTE: B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B7, B8, B12, B13, B14, B17, B20, B25, B26, B28, B29, B30, B32, B38, B39, B40, B41, B42, B43, B46, B48, B66, B71
Antenna(s): External
Low/mid-band FR1 5G & LTE: N-type female connectors, external 600 MHz – 6 GHz cellular paddle antennas (qty 4. included)

High-band FR2 5G: Internal 27.5-28.35 GHz, 37-40 GHz high-power antenna array (8×8 included)		Antenna(s): Built In
mmWave Antennas
QTM527-1/2
64-element phased array
44-45dBm Min Peak EIRP
LTE/Sub6 Antennas
3-4dBi, 3.3GHz – 3.8GHz
2-3dBi, 1.7GHz – 2.7GHz
0-4dBi, 600MHz – 960MHz
Dimensions:
12.72 x 11.8 x 3.11 in (323 x 300 x 79 mm)		Dimensions:
11.8 x 7.9 x 3.5 in (300 x 200 x 90 mm)
Operating Temps:
22 °F to 140 °F (-30 °C to 60 °C)		Operating Temps:
-4° to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C)
Package Contents:
-W4005-5GB Outdoor 5G Wideband Adapter
-802.3bt 90 W PoE Injector
-Cellular antenna, outdoor 5G Low/Mid Band with N type connector (Qty. 4)
-Outdoor mounting plate
-Pole mount clamp
-Plate to assembly mounting screws & washers
-Plate to W4005 mounting screws		Package Contents:
-FW2010e Router
-PoE Injector
-SIM Tool
Price and additional information:
Click Here!		Price and additional information:
Click Here!
  • A few key features with the Inseego FW2010e:
    • Uses high-power mmWave antennas to extend the reach of 5G mmWave and bring high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity to new use cases and experiences.
    • High-power 5G mmWave radio extends network coverage up to 4.35 miles (7 km) and lowers the cost of deploying gigabit broadband services.
    • Built In Antennas – cleaner, and easier to work with!
    • Supports additional 5G mmWave bands in comparison to the W4005.
    • Certified to work with the Verizon Business Plans.

Want to know more about these items – visit our site by using the links below for more information on each product.

Still unsure what might be a good fit for your needs? Contact Us Today!

  • Email: sales@5gstore.com
  • Call: 1-833-5GSTORE (1-833-547-8673)
  • Chat: Click HERE to chat with an expert at 5Gstore!
By 5G , , , , , ,

How Do I Perform a Cellular Site Survey?

When it comes to boosting cellular signal, it can be extremely helpful to perform a site survey. This is a simple cellular network strength test of signal and bandwidth.

Verifying where you have the best signal and bandwidth speeds first, will not only help determine the ideal placement for your external antenna, but that there is enough available signal to increase network performance. Even the best outdoor antenna or amplifier kit can only increase your signal if there is a signal available to draw in. On the other hand, if your signal is already strong, a signal booster might not provide enough benefit to be cost effective.

While this is mainly done for fixed applications. such as at your home or business. You may also do this if you’re traveling and planning to stay in the same location for an extended period. 

There are tools like the SureCall Site Survey kit which is made specifically for testing signal strength. However, unless you need an easy way to test multiple carrier signals, a cell phone or cellular modem can be sufficient. Cell phones will, of course, be limited to only the carrier they are linked to. Though if you have a cellular modem – Peplink, Cradlepoint, Digi, Inseego, Sierra Wireless, etc – you can test any carrier for which you have an active SIM card. 

Before you get started, it’s important you understand the data you’re looking for. RSSI, (Received Signal Strength Indicator), as well as RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power). These are both values that measure signal strength. RSRP is what you will want to refer to when looking at LTE and 5G signals. These signal values will be represented as a negative number. The closer this number is to 0, the stronger the signal strength. 

Also note the RSRQ (Received Signal Received Quality) and SINR (Signal to Noise Ratio). These values are what you’ll refer to for the signal quality of LTE and 5G connections. The SINR value will be the only value that is a positive number. Not all modems will list this value.  

Each of these values varies for different technologies and carriers as they depend on the particular abilities of the modem – essentially how well it can extract a signal. The values shown in the charts here are what we typically reference. 

We cannot guarantee a particular signal or improved performance, regardless of the signal strength and quality.  This is because of the many factors which affect signal values. Such as:

  • Distance to the cell tower.
  • Tower load.
  • Physical barriers (mountains, buildings, trains, etc).
  • Competing signals.
  • Signal from a cellular booster.
  • Weather.  

Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to what constitutes a successful connection. It is possible to disconnect with excellent, as well as poor values. You have to take both signal strength and signal quality into account. You could have an excellent signal, but disconnect because of poor quality. And vice versa. You may also stay connected because of good signal, but have poor bandwidth speeds because of poor signal quality. 

The variance of a signal is a significant factor in the success of a connection. Measurements of signal strength and signal quality for a specific moment do not reflect on the stability of a connection, as these values will vary as conditions change. 

Some factors, like cell tower load, can’t even be measured. You can only gain some idea as to whether or not tower load affects your connection by testing at different times of day. This allows you to find averages, but also helps to confirm if you’ll see any improvement when the tower is at full load.  

We understand that finding RSRP and RSRQ on a cell phone could be a bit tricky compared to cellular modems and routers. Some phones will only list RSRP. In the event you cannot locate these specific values from your cellular device, doing a site survey using the signal bars as a reference is fine. At a minimum, the signal bars will give you some data to compare with. It’s also best if you can perform speed tests in multiple points at the location. This can help determine if bandwidth performance improves. Especially when you’re not seeing a change in signal bars. 

To perform the site survey, try to answer the following, as best you can.

  • What is the RSRP indoors, at the location you use your device?
  • At that location, what are your speeds? You can use a site like speedtest.net to check your download and upload speeds.
  • What is the best RSRP you could find immediately outside and around the building?
  • At that location outside, what are your speed test results?
  • If the signal outside the building is not significantly better than it is inside, walk or drive in the direction of a better signal until you find a significantly better signal. At that location, what are your speedtest results?
  • What’s between you and that optimal signal? Trees? Elevation? How far away is it?  

For your reference, you can find instructions for locating your RSRP and RSRQ/ SINR on the Apple iPhone, Samsung, Google, Blackberry, and Nokia phones here.  

For different router instructions, check out our YouTube Channel.

If you have more questions, or would like assistance determining if an antenna or amplifier system can help you, reach out to our team by phone, email, or chat!

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How Do I Choose A Mobile Router?

Are you looking for a product that will best fit your mobile/marine needs? Or are you looking for a product that can assist with your large deployment project where cloud management is critical? Peplink has recently launched several products that would fit those needs and we wanted to talk to you about some of the key differences and similarities. 

With so many models having been phased out, knowing what replacement option will work best can be a challenge. It’s also frustrating when you are in need of the right solution with a quick turn around time for implementing it, and at the right price point!

The UBR Plus was recently announced and we are excited to highlight this product along with a few others that may be a better fit depending on your needs.

How do these products work and what is their main purpose?

  • These routers can fulfill the needs for small and large scale projects.
  • Perfect for cases where you are looking for something that will work well with a yacht/vehicle or for large deployments that need a solution that can be easily managed at all locations without having to physically be onsite.
  • These are cost effective options that offer easy installation in locations where space is limited.
Use Case:
Mobile
Marine
Large Warehouse
Railroad
Robotics		Use Case: 
Home
Small Office
Mobile
Robotics		Use Case: 
Marine
Mobile
Large Office/Location



Model: UBR-PLUS-LTEA-US-T-PRM
Model:MAX-TST-DUO-CORE-LTEA-R-T-PRM



Model: MAX-BR2-PRO-5GH-T-PRM
Enclosure: 
Indoor Metal
Enclosure: 
Indoor Metal
Enclosure: 
Indoor Metal
Wi-Fi Standard: 
Wi-Fi 5 (2×2 MiMo)
Wi-Fi Standard: 
N/A
Wi-Fi Standard: 
Wi-Fi 6 (2×2 MiMo)
Ethernet Ports: 
1 Gigabit WAN + 4 Gigabit LAN
Ethernet Ports: 
1 Gigabit WAN + 3 Gigabit LAN
Ethernet Ports: 
2 Gigabit WAN + 4 Gigabit LAN
Recommended # of Users: 1-60Recommended # of Users: 
25-150
Recommended # of Users: 1-150
Dimensions:
6.8 x 6.5 x 1.2 inches
Dimensions:
6.3 x 3.8 x 1.3 inches
Dimensions:
8.58 x 7.68 x 1.61 inches
Operating Temps:
-40° – 149°F
-40° – 65°C
Operating Temps:
-40° – 149°F
-40° – 65°C
Operating Temps:
-40° – 149°F
-40° – 65°C
Package Contents:
1x UBR Plus
4x LTE Antennas (ACW-235)
2x Dual Band Wi-Fi Antennas (ACW-341)
1x GPS Active Antenna (ACW-232)
1x 12V 2A 4 Pin Power Supply (ACW-632)		Package Contents:
1x MAX Transit Pro 
1x 12V 2A 4 Pin Power Supply (ACW-632)
4x 4G LTE Antennas (ACW-234)
1x GPS Active Antenna (ACW-232)
1 Pair of Mounting Brackets (ACW-724)		Package Contents:
1x MAX BR2 Pro 5G
1x 12V3A Power Supply 
8x LTE/5G Antennas 
2x Wi-Fi Dual Band Antenna 
1x GPS Antenna
Price and additional information:
Click Here!
Price and additional information:
Click Here!
Price and additional information:
Click Here!
  • A few key features with the UBR Plus:
    • Supports Bands B14, B66 and B71 ( ATT Firstnet and Tmobile Band 71 for 4G)
    • Power Port with Ignition Sensing – this allows the cellular router to start up or shut down when the engine of the vehicle it is connected to is started or turned off.
      • Perfect for Vehicle fleets that have GPS Monitoring when they are moving or need to maintain a connection for equipment.
      • Has the ability to be configured to stay on for select periods of time even when the vehicle is not running.
    • Swap carriers at any time with the UBR Plus’ built-in eSIM, or connect one of our SIM Injectors and remotely manage 8 additional SIMs from up to 100m away!
    • With a max speed of 900 Mbps, the UBR Plus brings you an unbreakable connection to keep your network running smoothly.

Want to know more about these items – visit our site by using the links below for more information on each product.

Still unsure what might be a good fit for your needs? Contact Us Today!

  • Email: sales@5gstore.com
  • Call: 1-833-5GSTORE (1-833-547-8673)
  • Chat: Click HERE to chat with an expert at 5Gstore!
By 5G , , , , ,

What is Cradlepoint NetCloud Exchange?

As our businesses changed with the pandemic, the need for the Internet in remote locations, cloud computing, and security all increased and continues to do so. Among other companies, Cradlepoint was able to assist greatly in these areas. At this time, their company believes that wide area network (WAN) architectures have proven too limited. They’re also too inflexible for securely connecting distributed enterprise sites, vehicles, remote employees and devices.

5G is also quite a big factor here that will assist in evolving the industry standards. Cellular is becoming more essential as an alternative or backup WAN so it is important that it can easily be managed and secured.

As a response, Cradlepoint has released a new version of NetCloud that is designed to address common issues and help “lean IT organizations” amplify their 5G experience. This will assist with advanced SD-WAN, zero-trust capabilities, and security services.

“As organizations continue to undergo digital transformation, IT teams must evolve how they manage the network edge,” said Rohit Mehra, group vice-president of network and telecom infrastructure at leading analyst IDC. “Cradlepoint’s innovation in wireless WAN is enabling enterprises to deploy 5G with the management and security functions needed to scale.”

The new software, called NetCloud Exchange, is based on what is called an agile LTE/5G VPN-like service. More importantly, it’s been designed to enable secure end-to-end connections for thousands of locations in just three steps. Zero-trust principles include IP address cloaking and no default network access to change the traditional VPN paradigm from “connect and then secure”, to “secure and then connect” to provide least privileged-based access.

Advanced SD-WAN features are of course an extension of Cradlepoint’s current SD-WAN capabilities. The advancement is that they have added end-to-end support and advanced application optimization. This adds features such as 5G network slicing, simplified configuration at scale, more advanced cloud integration, more resilient and flexible traffic steering, and more scalable and resilient private and cloud data center terminations.

Zero-trust network access consists of a service that is simple to deploy and uses flexible, granular user, site, application and resource-based policies that use identity, context and 5G attributes to control network access.  

All services are delivered using the NetCloud Exchange Service Gateway offering for private and cloud data centers, which aggregates remote connections, provides flow-level visibility and acts as the policy-enforcement point for the services it supports.

Cradlepoint’s EMEA product manager said, “Most network solutions today are designed for wired-only deployments. With the new NetCloud Exchange extension, NetCloud now offers new 5G and security-first services to support enterprise WAN transformation, including end-to-end secure connectivity, hybrid SD-WAN and zero-trust networking – all lifecycle-managed through a single pane of glass.”

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How Do I Activate My Cellular Device?

Today we’re going to go over some details and tips for activating your cellular modem or router. First, a little background information before you get started. Each cellular device – whether that be your cell phone, a mobile hotspot, or a cellular router – has an IMEI number. This is much like a serial number, as it is used to identify cellular devices. 

Each cellular carrier has a certification process they put cellular modems through. This is essentially a test to verify the modem is compatible with their network and capable of providing the necessary performance. Once certified, you can reach out to the carrier with the modem’s IMEI number and they will confirm compatibility and activate an appropriate data plan. For example, check out the links from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile below. These will provide you a list of all certified devices on their network. 

In cases that you might have a cellular modem that supports the proper frequency bands for your cellular carrier, but is “not” certified, it may still be possible to use this with a pre-activated SIM card. However, this may not work if the modem requires a different SIM card. Such as a 5G SIM card for the new 5G modems. Or if the data plan on the current SIM is not compatible with the modem. We mainly run into this where users have a grandfathered or pre-paid data plan. This also means even with a certified device, if the SIM card and data plan is not supported on the modem, you will need to change your data plan. If this might be the case for you, we advise inquiring with the carrier about making a switch first. 

The SIM card the carrier provides should be the correct size for your modem, but this is also something you’ll want to be clear on before you insert it into your modem. Currently, there are three sizes that modems use. Most require the 2FF size, which is also sometimes referred to as a standard or mini SIM. This is the largest of the three. Next is the 3FF, also called “micro.” And the smallest is known as a 4FF, or nano size. These days you’ll generally get a “combi” or “trio” type SIM card, which allows you to pop out the size your device requires.

Modems will differ slightly with regards to how the SIM card is inserted also. Take time to review the modem setup instructions, along with the diagrams shown on the hardware, as this will illustrate the proper orientation. Please double check this information as inserting the SIM card incorrectly may damage the device and/or the SIM card. 

Are you still looking for more tips? Chat with our team online, give us a call, or send us an email. We look forward to helping you get, and stay connected!

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