Mobile Broadband For Business: The Ultimate Guide
Mobile broadband can be a valuable tool for businesses that require flexibility and portability and can also be a helpful backup for businesses should your regular connection run into issues. A fixed-line broadband connection might be a better choice for businesses with high internet needs or a critical need for consistent connectivity, but nevertheless, we have chosen some of our favourite providers and created a helpful guide about mobile broadband for business below.
If you would like to learn more information or pricing about business broadband, you can do so here .
Useful links from our article:
Our Top Picks of Mobile Broadband For Business
How Does Mobile Broadband Work?
Pros of Mobile Broadband For Business
Cons of Mobile Broadband For Business
Who is Mobile Broadband For Business Suitable For?
Mobile Broadband Technology Comparison
Our Top Picks of Mobile Broadband For Business
Device
Network
Features
Cost (monthly)
Review
Three 5G Hub
Three
Up to 5G speeds
Connects up to 64 devices
Wi-Fi 6
£22 (often with initial offer period)
EE
Up to 5G speeds
Connects up to 64 devices
Wi-Fi 6,
Supports multiple SIM cards
£45+
Vodafone
Up to 5G speeds (limited availability)
Connects up to 32 devices, Wi-Fi 5
£40+
EE 4G WiFi Mini
EE
Up to 4G+ speeds
Compact and portable
Connects up to 10 devices
Wi-Fi 5
£14+
Unlocked
Up to 5G speeds (depending on network)
Compact and portable
Connects up to 16 devices
Wi-Fi 5
Price varies depending on retailer
Unlocked
Up to 5G speeds (depending on network)
Powerful battery
Connects up to 32 devices
Wi-Fi 6
Price varies depending on retailer
How Does Mobile Broadband Work?
Choose your dongle/device (like above!)
A SIM card, similar to the one in your phone, stores your mobile broadband plan information and connects you to the mobile network – these two items usually come together, and you can choose the plan that suits you.
The mobile broadband device uses the SIM card to connect to cell towers operated by your mobile network provider.
When you use your device to access the internet (browsing, streaming, downloading), data packets are sent and received through the cell towers.
The cell towers connect to the wider internet backbone, allowing your device to access online information and services.
Pros of Mobile Broadband For Business
As the name suggests, mobile broadband allows you to connect to the internet from anywhere with a mobile signal.
Mobile broadband contracts are often more flexible than traditional fixed-line broadband contracts, if you can’t commit to a 12+month contract, you can opt for a PAYG solutions. You can usually also choose data allowances and contract lengths that best suit your needs, and can often upgrade or downgrade your plan easily, making them great for travel.
Mobile broadband, particularly 5G, can offer faster speeds than traditional ADSL broadband connections in some remote areas.
Mobile broadband requires minimal setup compared to fixed-line broadband, all you need is a sim card and mobile broadband device to get going.
For businesses with limited internet usage or those who only need occasional connectivity, mobile broadband can be a more cost-effective option compared to fixed-line broadband plans with high data allowances.
Cons of Mobile Broadband For Business
Mobile broadband plans typically come with data caps , so if you have high internet usageneeds, you will probably find yourself with additional charges for exceeding your allowance or needing to top up.
Mobile broadband coverage, especially for 5G, is not yet as widespread as fixed-line broadband , so if you are in a rural area, or a building with poor coverage, it can be quite finnicky.
Mobile broadband can be susceptible to network fluctuations depending on location and weather conditions.
Public Wi-Fi hotspots offered by some mobile broadband devices are typically not be as secure as a private network.
Data allowances on phone plans are generally smaller and speeds may be slower, so they aren’t going to be suitable for a lot of businesses as a primary source of internet.
Who is Mobile Broadband For Business Suitable For?
We think mobile broadband would be useful for:
Anyone with remote workers or mobile teams
Anyone on the move, such as sales representatives, tradesperople, consultants, or event professionals.
Companies operating from pop-up shops, temporary offices, or construction sites can benefit from the quick setup and portability of mobile broadband.
Anyone with varying internet needs.
For businesses just starting out or with limited budgets, mobile broadband can be a cost-effective way to get connected without the installation costs of fixed-line broadband.
And not so much for:
Companies that rely heavily on real-time data transfer, cloud services etc.
Businesses in remote areas wsith limited mobile coverage.
Businesses that demand internet reliability.
Mobile Broadband Technology Comparison
Video About Mobile Broadband For Business
Hi, I’m Ally Cox, one of the leading Copywriter/Bloggers at CompareYourBusinessCosts.co.uk, a platform renowned for its in-depth analysis and comprehensive comparisons of business services. With over a decade of experience in the industry, I bring a wealth of expertise in areas such as leased lines, VoIP, business energy and office solutions, HR solutions, accounting, and payroll services, among others.
My journey in the industry began over 10 years ago, and my extensive knowledge enables me to provide invaluable insights to our users and customers. Prior to joining CompareYourBusinessCosts, I’ve been involved in various business ventures, gaining hands-on experience in HR and copywriting across a multitude of different sectors, gaining valuable knowledge about everything from clocking in systems to card machines, EPOS systems, payroll services, and so much more.
My mission is to simplify the often-complex buying process for businesses, helping them streamline their product and service comparisons effectively. By leveraging the expertise I’ve acquired over the years, I aim to assist businesses in making informed decisions that enhance their efficiency and bottom line.