What is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband is any type of broadband that uses the mobile phone network to connect you to the internet.
By using the 4G or 5G mobile network you can get speeds that are similar to or even faster than broadband via your phone line.
Who provides mobile broadband?
You can get mobile broadband deals from all the major mobile networks such as Three, EE, O2 and Vodafone.
Many of the smaller networks also offer mobile broadband deals, but don't worry they still have great coverage as they all use one or more of the major networks to provide their networks.
Will I need any special hardware to use mobile broadband?
If you don't have any hardware already then there are plenty of deals that come with all the gear that you need.
This hardware will be either a dongle or a small portable pocket sized router (sometimes called a mi-fi) for those who want something to easily carry around.
Some deals designed to be more permanent home broadband replacement services will come with the type of router you are more used to seeing with wired home broadband.
You can also buy your own routers that you can insert a mobile broadband SIM card into if you want something a bit more permanent.
If you go with a SIM only deal then you will need to provide your own router.
Do I need to sign up for a long contract?
The best deals tend to have longer contracts such as 12-24 months.
However there are lots of deals with rolling contract terms and even pay as you go deals so you only have to top up as and when you want to use the connection.
So there are contracts to suit every situation and budget.
Can I get mobile broadband in my area?
If you can get a good mobile signal on your phone (especially a 4G or 5G signal) then you will be able to get mobile broadband.
If you want to be sure then you can check out the mobile coverage checker that each network has on their websites to confirm.
If you sign up for mobile broadband then you have 14 days from receiving your hardware/SIM card to try the service, if you aren't happy it's right for you then you can cancel any contract and return any hardware for a full refund.
Why should I try mobile broadband?
We think you should try mobile broadband if any of the following apply:
- You don't want to get a landline phone just to be able to get broadband.
- You don't want to sign up to a long contract because you might be moving soon.
- You want to use the connection in multiple places.
- You live in an area with poor wired broadband service, but good mobile service.
Can I use my mobile phone to access mobile broadband?
Yes, you can in many cases. This is called 'tethering' and it allows you to use your phone as a mobile broadband wi-fi hotspot.
You can then connect for an example with your laptop via wifi to your phone and use your phone's data allowance to provide you a mobile broadband connection.
However, this isn't usually the cheapest way of providing a mobile broadband service and it doesn't provide as strong a wifi connection as the dedicated routers.
As a short term stop gap it can be great, but we would recommend getting a dedicated contract and hardware for longer term requirements.
Is mobile broadband the same as wifi?
No, not strictly, though most mobile broadband devices work as little mini-wifi hotspots and allow you to connect multiple devices via wifi so you can share the connection with multiple laptops, tablets and even mobile phones.
Is mobile broadband a good idea?
We think that in the right circumstances mobile broadband can be a great alternative to fixed line broadband connections.
If you have a good signal strength, then it can be a great home broadband replacement.
It's great for off grid solutions where you need a broadband connection but there is no option to connect to a wired network.
Or if you are wanting to use your connection in more than one place without having multiple contracts then it can be a good money saver.
If you are traveling and working, such as living the camper van lifestyle, then mobile broadband can be a real lifesaver.