The review presented to your attention on how to connect a Wi-Fi router via a mobile 3G, 4G modem is a universal method for absolutely any model of a wi-fi router and does not depend on the manufacturer's brand. The only differences are in the design of the interface of the settings section, in the names and location of the settings sections themselves. Attention! Make sure your router has support for mobile modems of the carrier of your choice. This information can be found in the instructions section "device specification" or on the manufacturer's website. This guide is suitable for any provider providing mobile Internet services - Megafon, MTS, Beeline, Yota, Tele2, SkyLink and all other mobile operators!

Setup steps

1. We take your USB modem from the mobile Internet operator and insert and insert it into the USB port on the router, and the Ethernet cable (or patch cord) that comes with the router, the first end into the LAN connector on the router, the second into the network card your computer.

2. On your personal computer (running Windows 7), go to the network settings section, do it along this path: Start \u003d\u003e Control Panel \u003d\u003e Network and Internet \u003d\u003e Network and Sharing Center \u003d\u003e Network Connections Management \u003d\u003e Changes adapter parameters.

Right-click on the item "Local Area Connection", then "Properties" then to the menu item Internet Protocol which is "TCP / IPv4" and select the following items "IP automatically" and "DNS server automatically"

Save, click "OK".

3. On the router (on its back side) we find the IP address that is used to enter the router's admin panel (as a rule, it is 192.168.0.1), and accesses (often login: admin, password: admin)

4. Open your favorite browser and write where the address line is 192.168.0.1 (or the other one that is indicated on the router), and log in.

5. We look at the router menu and find the item "USB modem" (or maybe 3G / 4G or USB settings, etc. options), activate it and enter the data for your operator in the fields indicated in the image.

I will give a list of settings for most mobile operators, but let me remind you for the current settings, look for your mobile operator.

Megaphone

APN: internet Username: gdata (optional) Password: gdata (optional)

Beeline

APN: internet.beeline.ru or home.beeline.ru Access number: * 99 # or * 99 *** 1 # Username: beeline Password: beeline

MTS

APN: internet.mts.ru Access number: * 99 # or * 99 *** 1 # Username: mts Password: mts

Tele2

APN: internet.tele2.ru Access number: * 99 # or * 99 *** 1 #

U-Tel (Rostelecom)

Access point: internet.usi.ru Username / Password: blank Dial number: * 99 *** 1 #

Yota

APN: yota.ru Access number: * 99 # Username: (empty) Password: (blank)

SkyLink

APN: empty Dial number: # 777 Username: mobile Password: internet

Smarts

APN: internet.smarts.ru Access number: * 99 # or * 99 *** 1 # Username: internet (optional) Password: internet (optional)

MTS-Belarus

Access Point / APN: mts User name: mts Password / Password:

mts Life

Access Point / APN: internet Username / Password: not required Access number: * 99 #

Beeline Ukraine

Access point (APN): internet.beeline.ua Access number: * 99 #, * 99 *** 1 # or * 99 ** 1 * 1 # for some phone models User: optional parameter - can be left blank; Password: optional - can be left blank.

Kyivstar

APN: For prepaid subscribers - www.ab.kyivstar.net For contract subscribers - www.kyivstar.net Access number: * 99 # or * 99 *** 1 #

Tele2 (TELE2 KZ)

Access point: internet Dial number: * 99 # Login: (empty) Password: (blank) Modem initialization string (optional): AT + CGDCONT \u003d 1, "IP", "internet"

Beeline KZ

Access point: internet.beeline.kz Dial number: * 99 # Login: beeline Password: beeline Modem initialization string (optional): AT + CGDCONT \u003d 1, "IP", "internet.beeline.kz"

Kcell-Activ

Access point: internet Dial number: * 99 # Login: (empty) Password: (blank) Modem initialization string (optional): AT + CGDCONT \u003d 1, "IP", "internet"

Some router models support automatic configuration depending on the mobile operator.

When you need to connect your computer to the Internet, you first have to deal with two basic concepts: "modem" and "router". Although they denote a means for creating and maintaining a communication channel between a PC and a network, they refer to different devices and are used in different situations.

What does a modem do

A modem is a device similar in appearance to a USB storage device (flash drive). It connects one device (usually a desktop or laptop) to the Internet. When the user activates the modem, the following happens: the modem determines which Internet operator to work with, connects to it, starts transferring user data and downloads information from the network to the computer. The modem is only responsible for maintaining the internet connection for one device.

The modem looks like a USB flash drive and is also inserted into the USB connector of a computer

There are two types of modems: 3G / 4G and ADSL. Today, the first type is mainly used, as it provides a more stable, faster, cheaper and more affordable connection to the network.

3G / 4G modem

Modems of this type are connected to the Internet using a SIM card. Almost all popular mobile operators (MTS, Beeline, Megafon, Yota, Tele2 and others) offer their services and special tariffs for modems. Moreover, most modems are ready to work with SIM cards connected not to a special tariff for computers, but only to a tariff with a mobile traffic package.

4G modems provide faster connections than 3G modems

Connecting to the Internet via a 3G / 4G modem is as follows: a SIM card with a pre-selected and paid tariff is inserted into the modem, the modem is connected to the computer and, using a special program supplied with the modem, establishes a connection to the network.

The price of a modem can range from one to several thousand rubles. An important factor affecting the price is support for 4G: modems that support this standard are more expensive.

Difference between 4G modems and 3G modems

When buying a SIM card and modem, remember that a 3G enabled modem is only capable of providing a connection in 3G and 2G cellular standards. If 4G support is declared in the name of the modem, then the device can provide communication in 4G, 3G, and 2G standards.

4G modems can be more expensive, and 4G internet rates are also generally more expensive than 3G. But for the higher price, you get a fast internet connection that is several times faster than the best 3G standards. The average speed of a 4G connection is 40-50 Mbps, and a 3G connection is 5-15 Mbps.

Cons of 3G / 4G modems

When choosing a modem, be sure to pay attention to the coverage area. All 3G / 4G modems are dependent on it.

The term “coverage area” refers to the area where a cellular network is available in your area. People living in Moscow and St. Petersburg, most likely, will not face the problem of lack of communication, since operators usually concentrate their forces on the territory of these cities. But if you do not live in a large city, then before buying a modem, be sure to look at the operator's official website if your region is within the coverage area. If the SIM card does not see the network, that is, it is outside the coverage area, the modem will not be able to work. The coverage area must be determined separately for 3G and 4G networks.

On the website of the mobile operator, you need to find out where the network "catches"

Video: comparison of 3G and 4G modems

An ADSL modem is a device that will provide your computer with an Internet connection via a telephone line. Such a modem resembles a router in appearance and can also distribute the Internet to several computers, since it has Ethernet ports for outgoing cables.

The ADSL modem has an input for connecting to a telephone line

Internet connection via ADSL modem

The connection is carried out as follows: a telephone cable is connected to the modem and connected to the connector of a special port, and a USB or Ethernet cable is connected to the other port, which is connected to the computer at the other end. The modem then acts as an intermediary providing a suitable frequency range for data transmission. Sometimes there are more complex designs that connect a computer to an ADSL modem using a router or access point.

Cons of ADSL modems

ADSL technology is practically not used these days for two reasons: it is more difficult to connect to a telephone line than to an Internet cable, and the maximum speed with such a connection is only 24 megabits per second. For comparison: a 3G modem under ideal conditions can reach speeds of up to 63.3 megabits per second.

What a router does

The router connects to the Internet via a modem or an Internet cable and connects several devices to the World Wide Web via Wi-Fi: computers, tablets or smartphones. Often in relation to a router, you can also hear the word "router" - it means that the router is engaged in the distribution of traffic coming from different devices.

The router has inputs for a modem, Ethernet cable and WLAN cables

Let's say there are two computers and one phone connected to a Wi-Fi network. On each device, the user does something on the network, sends some data to the Internet and receives information from the Internet. All these data streams pass through the router, which must independently determine which part of the information to send to a specific computer, and which to a mobile phone, and not confuse anything.

The main characteristics of the router

When preparing to buy a router, pay attention to the following characteristics:

price: the cheapest options - from 1 thousand rubles, the most expensive - over 10-20 thousand rubles;
list of supported modems: list of models with which the router can work;
support for 3G / 4G technology: all modern routers are able to work with a 3G network, but not all of them support a 4G connection; if you try to distribute 4G Internet from a router that does not support this technology, it will automatically switch to the 3G protocol, the router will continue to work, but high speed will not work;
range: the radius over which the Wi-Fi signal will be distributed depends on it; manufacturers usually indicate the range in ideal conditions (no rain, with excellent connection to the satellite, no concrete and other obstacles), but in reality the router will be interfered with by walls and other obstacles, as well as, possibly, a low level of the Internet signal (its quality depends on the modem), so feel free to cut the declared range by 5–10 m; the average range of routers is 100 meters in normal conditions and 300 meters in open areas, and the connection speed decreases with distance from the router.

Pros and cons of a router

Using a router has two main advantages: signal amplification and the ability to distribute the Internet to multiple devices. All routers have antennas that help the modem to pick up the signal from the satellite, and the better the signal, the higher the speed of receiving and sending traffic.

The disadvantages of the router include:

Its size. A standard device covers an area of \u200b\u200babout 300 cm 2 (about the size of a book).
In addition, the router requires a constant connection to the power outlet, while the modem is powered from the USB port.
When connecting a wired Internet to a router, problems can also arise: it is not possible to lay an Internet cable everywhere.

Does the router replace the modem

The router does not replace the modem, they work in pairs. The router itself does not know how to establish a connection with the satellite, this is done by the modem. The modem is inserted into the router and takes on the task of receiving and sending data, and the router only sorts out which of the connected devices to give, and which to receive and where to send.

A modem with a router together create a home Wi-Fi network with Internet access

The router can work not only with a wireless modem, but also with a wired Internet. In this case, the connection to the network will be provided by an Ethernet cable, but the functions of the router will not change.

Video: what is a router

What to choose: router or modem

It will not be possible to select only a router for the reasons described in the paragraph "Does the router replace a modem". When choosing a specific connection configuration, it is recommended to proceed from the following considerations.

If you need the Internet for one device, while not tied to one point, buy a modem. You can plug it into a laptop and use it anywhere in your region (and abroad, too, but outside your home region, special terms and conditions usually apply).
If you need Internet throughout the house for two or more devices at the same time, buy a modem and connect it to a router. At any time you can remove the modem from the router and start using it outside the home. In addition, modern routers are so small and light that you can always take them with you on the road if necessary.
If you need to provide a large number of devices with the Internet, for example, in an organization or a club, you need to install a router and connect to it either a powerful modem capable of providing a speed sufficient to work on all computers at the same time, or an Internet cable.
If you are going to travel with a device that has a USB port or supports a SIM card (you can take out the SIM card from the modem and put it in your phone or tablet), then it is better to buy a modem and find a suitable travel tariff.

Table: Differences Between Router and Modem

Video: differences between a router and a modem

The modem provides data exchange with the Internet: receiving and sending information. The router opens access to the Internet via a Wi-Fi network. A modem allows you to use the Internet on only one device, a router on two or more. The throughput of the router is set by the manufacturer.

Technologies / 14.12.2018

Router for 4G modem: choosing the best

In this review, we will touch upon such a thing as a router for a 4G modem. We will review several equipment options, give a detailed description and analyze the functionality, the cost of goods and technical characteristics. This article will be useful to those looking for the best home installation technique to gain stable network access.

A Wi-Fi router for a 4G modem is an opportunity to provide traffic to several devices at once. At the same time, the installation of equipment guarantees the safety of transmitted and received data and high speed of work. Routers supporting 4G modems are in particular demand among those who live where there are no wired providers' networks. So, let's discuss the various equipment options.

Model overview

Choosing a router with a 4G modem is not always easy - you need to clearly understand for what purpose you are buying equipment and what parameters it must meet. Our review will help you decide on the purchase - just study the presented technique and make a choice.

Please note that we give the approximate cost of routers for working with a 4G modem - the real price in different stores may differ up or down.

ZyXEL USG 40

The cost is 25,000 rubles.

This is a rather expensive model of a Wi-Fi router with support for 3G, 4G modems, but the high price is justified by the following parameters:

Enhanced information protection (great for creating a corporate network);
High connection speed (especially wired);
Reception of the network from three providers at once, which ensures the reliability of the connection.

Specifications:

The data transfer rate over WAN reaches 1 Gbps;
Wirelessly - up to 450 Mbps;
Frequencies: 2.4 and 5 GHz;
Number of connected antennas: 2 (5 dBi each).

Consider the following Wi-Fi router with a 4G modem.

ASUS RT-AC68U_W

The price is 10 500 rubles

The main feature of this equipment lies in the great possibilities of signal amplification - this power will be enough even for a very large room.

Main characteristics:

Frequencies - 2.4 and 5 GHz;
Wireless speed - up to 1900 Mbps;
Data transmission over LAN - up to 1 Gbps;
Signal gain - 15 dBi.

Our next hero is a router with a built-in 3G / 4G modem.

HUAWEI B593

The cost is about 5 thousand.

The Huawei 4G modem + Wi-Fi router is an excellent offer for those who want to get a stable connection at a low price (about five thousand rubles).

The device has the following features:

Support for GSM network operators;
Simplest settings to get started;
Availability of 2 USB ports for connecting a network printer or USB drives;
Availability of 4 LAN RG-45 ports for connecting devices via twisted pair.

Main characteristics:

Maximum incoming / outgoing speed - 100 and 50 Mbps, respectively;
4G / LTE bands LTE Band 3/7/20 (800/1800/2600 MHz);
3G bands HSPA / HSPA + / UMTS (900/2100 MHz);
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n up to 32 users;
LAN ports LAN 4 (100 Mbps).

It is a wonderful router with USB port for 4G modem, which features stable performance. Consider the following option, offered at an even more affordable price.

ASUS DSL-N17U

The cost of the product is 3000 rubles.

A feature of the equipment can be called the presence of free cloud storage in the kit (for the most common operating systems) and a graphical interface. Allows you to organize multiple wireless networks and protect data transmission.

Product parameters:

Working frequency - 2.4 GHz;
Wireless transmission - up to 300 Mbps;
LAN speed - up to 1000 Mbps;
Signal amplification up to 10 dBi.

Now let's discuss a router for a YOTA 4 Ji modem - a common equipment for accessing the network.

ZyXEL Keenetic DSL

The issue price is about 3.5 thousand rubles.

One of the best options for using a provider allows you to provide a large room with a network - even several apartments. In addition, a router with a USB port for a 4G modem works with MMO technology, which allows you to significantly expand the bandwidth of the channel and get access to additional services (for example, television).

Let's note the parameters of the equipment:

Information transfer over a wireless network - up to 300 Mbps, over a wired network - up to 100 Mbps;
Two antennas;
Signal gain: 2x5 dBi;
Working frequencies - 2.4 GHz.

Choosing the best router for a USB 4G modem is not so easy, but we will tell you about one of the fastest models.

ASUS RT-AC87U

The cost is from six to seven thousand rubles.

This model features stylish design and excellent gain - it is not just a router with an external antenna. There are four antennas in the equipment. To call it one of the most powerful types of technology allows the performance indicator - 2334 Mbit!

Parameters:

Coverage area - up to 465 square meters;
Support for 300,000 connections (which means downloading an unlimited number of files);
Wi-Fi speed - up to 1734 Mbit / s, LAN - 1000 Mbit / s;
Signal amplification up to 20 dBi.

Let's discuss another inexpensive option.

ASUS RT-AC51U

The price is about 2.5 thousand.

This equipment operates in two ranges and is characterized by:

Stable work;
Increased coverage area;
Lack of problem areas of work;
Simultaneous action of four devices;
The ability to connect a printer and external drives.

Key Features:

Gain up to 10 dBi;
Two antennas;
Frequencies: 2.4 and 5 GHz;
Wireless data transmission - up to 733 Mbit, wired - 100 Mbit per second.

The next participant in the review is a 4G mobile router with Wi-Fi.

Huawei E5573

The cost is about three thousand rubles.

The portable model has three indicators:

Battery charge level;
Data reception level;

Product parameters:

Working time - 5 hours;
Capacity - 1500 mAh;
Data transfer at speeds up to 150 Mbps;
Operating frequencies - from 800 to 2600 MHz;
Weight - 95 grams;
Dimensions - 96.8x58x14.4 mm.

Our latest hero is a device with a SIM card.

ASUS 4G-N12

The cost is about 8.5 thousand.

The following factors should be noted separately:

Stylish design;
High quality workmanship;
The presence of adapters for micro- and nano-SIM cards;
Work without breaks.

Technical specifications:

Frequency range - 2.4 GHz;
Maximum speed - 300 Mbps;
Two antennas (external);
The gain is 2 dBi.

We reviewed the best Wi-Fi routers with support for 4G modems, study our list, choose the models you like and get reliable equipment at an affordable price.

Among external devices for connecting to the Internet using 3G or 4G technology, one can single out USB modems and routers. Modems provide connectivity for only one device (usually a laptop or desktop PC). Routers differ in that they support WiFi and, as a rule, are equipped with a battery for autonomous operation. The WiNetwork editors have prepared a rating of such devices that allow you to access the global network without a cable connection to the provider.

5th place in the rating: ZTE MF65

Inexpensive model of mobile router with 3G support. Autonomous operation is provided by a built-in battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh. It lasts 280 hours in standby mode or 4 hours of active use of the ZTE MF65. The router does not have a connector for connecting an external antenna, but if you have certain skills, you can add it yourself. The mobile forums have step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble the MF65 and add this connector.

The design of the device is as simple as possible: there are only two buttons on the case - turning on / off the router and activating the WiFi Protected Setup mode. The LED indicators for operation are located on a black glossy strip at the top of the case. A nice addition to this budget model is the microSD card slot that supports drives up to 32GB. When you insert a memory card on the router, the file server is turned on, which opens up the sharing of files on the microSD via WiFi.

4th place: Xiaomi ZMI 4G

An unusual device that combines the functions of a 3G / 4G router and a universal mobile battery (power bank) of 7800 mAh. Despite the lack of external antennas, ZMI 4G stably receives signals from base stations of mobile operators. On the upper side of the case there are connectors and indicators:

USB connector for charging external devices;
Micro USB port for charging Xiaomi ZMI 4G;
Network reception level indicator;
WiFi module operation indicator;
Battery charge indicator.

Like many other Xiaomi network devices, this model has a drawback in the absence of the Russian language in the web interface. You can use the Android or iOS mobile application to configure and monitor the status. It is available in English, Chinese and Japanese, and there is no Russian translation either.

Note! When ordering Xiaomi ZMI 4G in Chinese online stores, be sure to consider the hardware version of the router. The MF815 model is intended for the Chinese market, so it will not work with mobile networks in Russia or other CIS countries. Suitable frequencies are used in the international version - MF855.

3rd place: TP-Link M5250

Compact 3G router with long battery life and sleek design. Supports simultaneous connection of up to 5 different wireless devices via WiFi. It can be used to receive and send SMS through the built-in control panel. Easy to use, has a user-friendly configuration interface.

The disadvantages include the lack of a power supply in the package and a WPS button on the router case. The router is equipped with a microSD card slot, the full use of which is difficult due to the lack of a file server. The information from the memory card can only be read when the M5250 is connected via a cable. Network sharing of microSD data is not possible. Also, this TP-Link model cannot work in USB modem mode. Even if the router is connected to the computer via USB, Internet access is possible only via WiFi.

2nd place: Huawei E5330

A reliable 3G router with the ability to send text messages and supports tethering. Differs in a quick turn-on - the device is completely ready for operation within 5 seconds after pressing the power button. Allows you to simultaneously connect to WiFi up to 10 devices at 2.4 GHz.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide for the possibility of sending USSD requests through the router's web interface. Of course, most mobile operators allow you to track the balance or the remainder of the packet traffic through your personal account on the site. But if your operator does not provide such an opportunity, in order to clarify the necessary data, you will have to send SMS or remove the SIM card from the router, and then install it in your mobile phone.

Important advice! The E5330 can also operate as a wireless repeater (repeater). This method of use is relevant in conjunction with the main router if it does not provide sufficient WiFi coverage.

1st place: NETGEAR AC785

Wireless 3G / 4G router with built-in display and two slots for connecting external antennas. They are connected via TS9 connectors hidden under the caps on the bottom panel. The most expensive model among routers in this rating, the price of which fully corresponds to its high technical characteristics and a large number of supported functions.

Unlike most other mobile routers, it supports WiFi broadcasts at 5 GHz in addition to the standard 2.4 GHz. Among the wireless functions, it is also worth noting the possibility of creating a guest network. AC785 works up to 10 hours after a full charge of 2000mAh battery. The diagonal of the screen is about 1.8 inches, it displays:

Signal strength of the mobile operator's network
The type of network used (2G, 3G or 4G);
Current data transfer activity (downloading or uploading);
Operator name;
Unread SMS notification;
USB connection status;
Battery charge level;
Current charging status (charging or discharging);
Number of devices connected to AC785 via WiFi;
Wireless network name (SSID);
WiFi password;
The amount of used traffic.

Important! NETGEAR has also developed two docking stations for the AC785 model. They are not included in the package, but can be purchased separately. The docking stations are equipped with reinforced antennas and Ethernet ports for connecting to wired home network devices.

Summing up

The WiNetwork editors choose NETGEAR AC785 as the best among the presented devices. This router is easy to set up and easy to use. And when connected to a docking station, it turns into a full-fledged router for an apartment or house. If in your region only 3G networks are supported or you do not need a dual-band router, pay attention to the model Huawei E5330, which ranks second in this rating.

In our time, the Internet is needed almost always and everywhere. And this applies not only to urban everyday life, when we can catch 3G or 4G from a smartphone or tablet almost anywhere in the city. If we talk about a laptop, then we can, of course, find a Wi-Fi network or distribute the Internet from a smartphone. But you must admit that this is not always possible and not so convenient. And what can we say about country trips, when catching 2G is already good, and free Wi-Fi networks can only dream of us. Okay, another smartphone or tablet, but what about a laptop? And if there is a stationary computer in the country? What if they call from work? It would be possible to complete urgent tasks right outside the city, but there is no Internet, you have to go home.

On long trips, you also need the Internet: in business - for work, in tourist - to study maps, find interesting places, post photos on Instagram and other social networks. Do you really have to look for Wi-Fi forever or distribute the Internet from your phone?

Modems and mobile routers will come to the rescue. The principle of their operation is simple: insert a SIM card and enjoy the Internet. The signal strength depends only on the coverage area of \u200b\u200byour operator. "Excellent!" - you say and open the page with modems. And there are so many of them ... And such different prices ... How to choose? It all depends on how exactly you want to use the gadget. It is important what devices you will connect to it, as well as where you will use it.

An important point is the choice of the operator. The signal level depends on it, and, consequently, the data transfer rate. Many carriers offer their own "branded" modems. They have two drawbacks. First, they are often more expensive. Second, you can only use the services of this operator. If, in the place where you are, his networks are not working - well, alas. Therefore, we propose to consider third-party modems and mobile routers.

How are modems different?

USB modem or mobile router

A USB modem is a transceiver that uses the networks of mobile operators to transmit and receive information. It connects to the USB port of the computer and, after a little setup, allows you to use the Internet. It can also be used with a regular router. A SIM card is inserted into the USB modem, the choice of which depends only on the coverage of the operator's network in the place you need. All USB modems are very small and lightweight and can be carried in a bag or pocket.

A mobile router is a device that works like an ordinary modem. A SIM card is inserted into it, the device receives a signal from a mobile operator and, unlike a USB modem, provides mobile Wi-Fi. Such a gadget is usually powered by a battery that requires regular charging. Mobile routers are not as small as USB modems. Some models can be put in a pocket, and some will only fit in a bag.

To choose from these two types of gadgets, answer the question: what do you need this device for? If you want to use it only with a laptop to have internet anywhere, or with a stationary computer, purchase a USB modem. If you are interested in a portable Wi-FI access point for connecting a number of devices, it is better to purchase a mobile router.

3G or 4G

3G and 4G are wireless technologies that enable high-speed Internet access from mobile devices. The letter G in their names is from the word "generation", that is, "generation." Consequently, 3G is the third generation of wireless communication, and 4G is the fourth.

The main difference between these two generations is the data transfer rate. 3G networks are capable of transmitting data at different speeds, which depend on the operating frequency of the mobile operator. The leading operators have an operating frequency of 15 MHz, while some smaller ones only 4.5 MHz. Therefore, the speed range of 3G networks ranges from several hundred kilobits to several tens of megabits per second.

The main advantage of 3G networks is their coverage area, which covers most of the territory of Russia. Also a plus will be the low cost of modems that only work with 3G.

4G networks are capable of transferring data at much higher speeds - up to 1 Gbps. True, it depends on the type of device: for example, not all mobile devices will be able to achieve a speed of 100 Mbit / s.

The downside of 4G networks is poor coverage in Russia: it only covers large cities. Also, due to the high-speed data transfer, devices working with 4G have higher power consumption.

So when choosing a gadget for summer cottages or trips, it is better to opt for a 3G modem, since you are still unlikely to catch 4G, and you will spend less money on the device. For a city, a 4G modem is better suited.

GSM, GPRS, EDGE, HSPA, LTE

All these terrible abbreviations are nothing more than communication standards and technologies of different generations.

GSM is the main second generation communication standard. GPRS packet data transmission technology has been created for it, the transmission speed of which can reach 115 kbps.

EDGE is a packet data transmission technology that uses the second generation CDMA communication standard. The speed with it reaches 384 kb / s. By the way, this is the very E,

which is displayed on the screen of a smartphone or tablet when it does not catch either 4G, 3G or H.

HSPA is a third generation communication standard that allows up to 42.2 Mb / s packet data rates. And this is the same H.

LTE is a fourth generation data transmission technology with a speed of up to 1 Gb / s.

All these standards and technologies are actively used by Russian telecom operators. In the absence of the latest and fastest networks, devices usually switch to the previous generation networks. Therefore, it is better that all of them are supported by the modem, although this is almost always the case.

Nutrition

As we already mentioned, USB modems do not need a separate power supply. Thanks to this, they can be used at any time, it is enough just to insert them into the USB-port of the computer.

Mobile routers run on batteries. The larger their volume, the longer the gadget will work. However, do not forget about such important factors of battery consumption as working on 4G networks and the presence of additional sensors and functions.

Ethernet port

This is the connector that will allow you to connect the modem to your computer using an Ethernet cable. This connection will ensure stability and maximum speed between the device and the modem. This function is only available for mobile routers, since USB modems are already connected to the computer.

External antenna interface

An external antenna is needed in order to better catch the network. After all, the signal is unstable, especially outside the city; it depends on the time of day, weather, and many other factors. The main disadvantage of the antenna is its low mobility. Therefore, this option is suitable only for those who decided to equip a stationary Internet point, for example, in the country.

Additional functions

Mobile modems have additional functions. But they may not be useful to everyone. In addition, many of them are quite energy intensive. So decide right away which of the following you need.

The microSD card slot is useful for owners of laptops with a small number of USB ports. By inserting a flash card into the modem, you can use it as a storage device and, for example, store programs related to the Internet and connecting to it (to free up space on the computer and be able to immediately run all the necessary programs on another device by simply inserting the modem ).

Support for the SMS service allows using a special program installed on the computer to receive and send SMS messages. This function is only available for USB modems.

The sensors and display will help determine the battery level, network availability, the number of connected users, etc. But you need to remember that with them the battery sits down faster.

An application for smartphones and tablets helps control the charge level of connected users, transfer data to the modem's flash drive. This feature is only available on mobile routers.

Overall dimensions

If we talk about USB modems, then they are all no more than 100 mm in length and 40 g in weight. It's different with mobile routers. Their weight can reach 700 g, and dimensions - 250 x 100 mm. But there are also compact models that can be easily carried in your pocket.

Setting up

For many users, this will be an important parameter. After all, I want to launch a gadget and use it immediately. Moreover, for many it will become a real problem to set up a modem - not everyone is fluent in the technique. Therefore, if we proceed from this parameter, then it is better to give preference to USB-modems, and the most simple ones.

Criterias of choice

We examined the main parameters of mobile modems and found out that the selection of characteristics depends on the user's needs. It is necessary to determine where and with what devices the modem will be used, as well as what additional functions will be needed. Based on the needs of users, we have classified mobile modems.

For use in a city with a stationary computer worth buying a 4G USB modem.

With laptop It will be convenient to use a 3G or 4G USB modem with a MicroSD card.

For modem operation with several devices in the country or in the apartment it is better to purchase a 4G mobile router with an Ethernet cable.

If you want to carry the Wi-Fi hotspot with you, pay attention to small-sized mobile 4G routers.

Problems