If you’re responsible for keeping your organisation connected, you’ll be well aware that reliable internet access is critical. Pretty much everything within your business will rely on a stable connection, from the cloud applications you use to make and store files to the VoIP systems you use to make calls. Traditionally, that stable connection will have been a fixed-line solution, often previously a copper-based service that’s been replaced by fibre broadband or a leased line.
However, these are not the only broadband options for businesses. Mobile broadband is rapidly evolving. You’ve probably used it on your phone countless times, but you won’t be alone if you’ve never considered it as a business-grade solution. We’ve created this short guide to explain what it is and help you uncover whether it could be perfect for your users and systems.
What Is Mobile Broadband?
Mobile broadband is exactly what it sounds like: internet connectivity delivered by mobile networks (typically 4G and/or 5G), rather than through physical cables like fibre lines.
The key difference between the two types of connectivity lies in how the connection is delivered. Both fibre broadband and leased lines, the two most popular options for businesses, rely on a fixed infrastructure. They offer excellent and consistent performance, but they aren’t always available immediately (or at all).
Mobile broadband, on the other hand, removes dependency on fixed infrastructure. It instead uses a router fitted with a SIM card that connects to the nearest mobile network mast. That router then distributes the internet across your premises, just like a traditional broadband connection does. There’s no need for line installation; the router simply plugs in and plays, meaning that mobile broadband can be deployed rapidly and used wherever there’s suitable signal coverage.
When To Use Mobile Broadband For Business
The flexible nature and quick installation times of mobile broadband make it incredibly versatile. That said, it still shines most in specific situations:
As A Temporary Solution
One of the most common uses of mobile broadband in business is as a temporary form of connectivity. Perhaps you’re moving offices, opening a new site, or waiting for a fibre installation (either due to foreseen wait times or unexpected delays). In these circumstances, mobile broadband can bridge the gap and get you online almost immediately.
As A Backup Connection
Mobile broadband is also widely used as a backup connection. Even the most reliable leased lines and fibre broadband services are not entirely immune to network outages. Having a mobile broadband failover in place ensures that everybody stays connected and productive. In fact, routers can usually be set to switch over automatically, so you might not even notice that anything has gone wrong!
When Not To Use Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband is not bulletproof, and it does have some limits. Speeds can vary significantly depending on network coverage and local demand. If your bandwidth requirements are consistently very high, a fixed service is probably a better bet (certainly as a primary solution).
Can Mobile Broadband Replace Fixed Broadband?
That said, we are seeing more and more examples of organisations that have successfully replaced fixed broadband with a more flexible mobile broadband solution. With the continued rollout of 5G and general improvements in mobile network performance, it’s increasingly possible to use mobile broadband as a primary connection. We’re seeing this particularly in areas where fibre isn’t readily available or where flexibility is a priority.
One of the key developments making this possible is the availability of fixed IP addresses over mobile connections. In simple terms, this means that you can now access services that might’ve previously relied on a static connection, such as remote access and even networked printing and scanning.
Case Study – YMCA Plymouth
Our recent partnership with the charity YMCA Plymouth highlights exactly where mobile broadband can step in and make a real difference to businesses. Following the unexpected closure announcement of the Torpoint Community Sports Centre, the existing internet provider disconnected the site’s connection earlier than planned. This left staff without connectivity, despite the centre remaining operational for several more weeks and continuing to serve the local community.
At Agile Comms, we responded quickly, deploying 5G routers on-site to restore connectivity almost immediately. This meant that the team could continue working as normal without significant disruption. The speed and simplicity of the setup ensured that what could have been a highly disrupted situation was instead handled smoothly.
Mobile Broadband From Agile Comms
While it’s not right for every organisation, mobile broadband provides a revolutionary connectivity solution in situations where a fixed fibre connection isn’t practical or possible. It can give you the flexibility to stay connected whenever and wherever you need it, whether that’s because you’re growing or changing.
At Agile Comms, our 4G and 5G solutions are designed to deliver that level of flexibility without loss of performance. We can support primary, temporary and backup solutions with business-grade routers and secure network configurations, creating connections that are robust enough to support everyday activities.
To find out more, please get in touch with us, and we can have a chat about how mobile broadband could work in your organisation.
