How fast will my installed mobile broadband connection be?
Our installed mobile broadband connections typically have a download speed of up to 40 Mbps, an upload speed of up to 10 Mbps, and a latency of around 40 ms. Some of our customers, however, report higher speeds while others report lower speeds. So, what should you expect in your location? How fast will installed mobile broadband be for you?
To answer this question, let’s take a closer look at the major factors that affect the speed of an installed mobile broadband connection: radio frequency and signal strength. Then, let’s take a closer look at the ways you can ensure that you’re getting the fastest mobile broadband connection that’s possible in your location.
Higher radio frequencies transmit online data faster
Mobile broadband uses radio waves to transmit online data between your device and a remote host. The speed of these transmissions depends on the radio frequency of the connection. Higher radio frequencies transmit online data faster. Unfortunately, cellular carriers can’t just use the highest frequency band possible because lower radio frequencies have a longer range.
Most cellular carriers, then, use the 800 MHz band or, sometimes, the 1900 MHz band as well. Here’s a full list of which carriers use which frequency bands. Unfortunately, you can’t choose which frequency band your carrier uses. You might, however, be able to choose a carrier that operates on a higher frequency band if that’s an option where you live.
You have more control over the frequency band of your local area network (LAN). Wireless routers typically use the IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n, or IEEE 802.11ac Wi-Fi standards. For a faster internet connection, use IEEE 802.11a, which operates on the 5 GHz band instead of the 2.4 GHz band. Just remember that you’ll have to sacrifice signal range for signal speed.
Want to boost the speed of your LAN? Check out this blog posts on improving your Wi-Fi signal.
Signal strength is the single greatest indicator of wireless internet speed
The speed of your mobile broadband connection depends heavily on the local signal strength. If your location has good coverage, then your internet speeds will meet or exceed your carrier’s advertised speeds. If your location has poor coverage, your connection will be slower. Network speeds vary from user to user simply because coverage is not even from location to location.
While local signal strength is, for the most part, out of your control, you can maximize your potential signal strength by choosing the right carrier, knowing the location of the nearest cellular tower, and, if necessary, installing a booster antenna to increase gains. To maximize mobile broadband speeds, it’s also important to install your router, your directional antenna, or your omnidirectional antenna in the location in your building with the best signal strength.
We want you to have a fast mobile broadband connection
We want you to have the fastest mobile broadband connection possible, wherever you are. To ensure that you aren’t stuck with a slow internet connection, EvdoDepotUSA offers a 10-day free trial for new customers. During this free trial, you have an opportunity to test your data plan and wireless router. If either isn’t working for you, you can cancel or modify your plan during the 10-day period without penalty. For more information, give us a call at 866-439-6630.
