3G/4G Backup – A Solution to Network Outages

Wide area network (WAN) outages are a common problem for both enterprises and families, whether they are caused by natural disasters or old, unreliable copper networks. It’s annoying to not have access to internet-connected services even when the connection drop only lasts for a few seconds. Which is why an internet backup plan isfor when a network disconnect occurs is incredibly useful.

Why do you need a 3G/4G backup solution?

Traditionally, most people would connect their devices to Wi-Fi hotspots provided by mobile phones when a wired connection (DSL or cable) is not practical. However, phone-based hotspots pose a few problems. For starters, the speed of a mobile hotspot is, usually, significantly slower than Wi-Fi or even Mifi hotspots. What’s worse, using your phone as a mobile hotspot eats up data super quickly, leading to massive phone bills. Not least is the battery consumption used to turn a phone into a hotspot. Your phone will run out of power before you know it.

The best way to avoid using phone-based hotspots is the 3G/4G backup solution on your router. A 3G/4G connection on your router functions just like another WAN (internet) connection. All you need is to prepare a USB 3G/4G modem or dongle and plug it directly into your router’s USB port (note that your router must be compatible with USB modems). Alternatively, you can buy an LTE router with 3G/4G built-in and insert a SIM card.

When the router can not get access to the internet via Ethernet cable, it will automatically switch to the 3G/4G connection if the 3G/4G backup function is enabled. Your devices would not experience an internet drop since this seamless turnover will maintain the existing configurations. Additionally, all major cellular networks now support 3G data and most countries are now rolling out the 4G standard. This guarantees the speed and stability of the internet connection. 

TP-Link Router with 3G/4G Backup

The TP-Link 3G/4G wireless router is compatible with multiple USB 3G/4G modems and dongles. After plugging in a modem, log in to the router’s interface and select wireless router mode with 3G/4G backup as the operation mode. You will always be connected with a WAN connection and 3G/4G backup.

The TP-Link 3G/4G router is ideal for:

• Backup for your primary Internet feed (ADSL, cable, etc.)
• Providing lower-cost broadband than a fixed-line solution
• Areas without fixed-line broadband access
• Compatibility with a wide range of 3G modems/dongles
• Movable Locations
• Outdoor locations (the router and modem must be indoors, though!)
• Disaster planning and ensuring high internet availability