How to choose a modem

Wireless communication modules are necessary to provide access to the Internet from a computer, but not everyone knows how to do it correctly. First, you need to know in advance what type of connection will be used in your home or business. If it is a wired access, then the usual wired modems, which are also called computer modems (e.g. ADSL2, ADL, ADAM) will do. In the case of Wi-Fi, you will need a wireless signal (analog or digital connection), which will provide access to the network.

How to choose the right modem and what parameters to pay attention to

In order to choose the right modem, you should consider many factors: the speed and quality of the connection, cost, data link parameters and more. In fact, there are several universal criteria that you can use to determine what is right for you.

All modems measure it in megabits (Mbytes) per second or megabits per second. The higher the value, the faster the data transfer rate. Manufacturers make sure that this parameter always stays within the limits specified in the specifications of your modem. So, for example, if your settings specify no more than 2 Mbytes per second, then this parameter will indeed be used to transmit data at high speed. If you set it higher than 2 Mbytes per second with a large margin of error, you will probably ask your ISP to set you a higher value.

By taking your modem reading, you will be able to know that your connection speed is not currently an issue. The speed as a unit of measure is usually stated in bits (Bits). Most modems measure speed in Mbps.

Cost .

The most important parameter. You can choose a modem in an online store, but it is likely to be more expensive. Many telecom operators offer special rates, depending on which the price changes. Of course, each of these factors is different, and when choosing one should be guided by the needs, not by the prices. The best option may serve Huawei E3372h-320 modem Usb with antenna Shopcarry M2 omnidirectional 3g 4g lte 2×2 cable 3 meters, to learn more about its characteristics, as well as to know the cost, follow this link.

In order to choose the right modem, you need to have a clear idea of what you need it for.

Choosing the provider

Once you have decided what you need to connect to the Internet, you need to make a choice of operator. Of course, you can use the services of a mobile provider that offers both wired and wireless connections. It is worth bearing in mind, however, that the connection will only be carried out within the territory of a particular city, i.e. rates may vary. The choice is up to you. To get more information about the equipment you need, consult specialists at a computer store. There you will be offered a wide range of equipment for connecting the Internet.

First of all, you need to determine the requirements that you have for the service you provide. There are two basic types of connection: digital and analog:

1. Digital connection involves the use of modern equipment and technology, which makes it more reliable. The advantage of this connection is its versatility: you can connect to a desktop computer and a laptop at the same time.
2. Analog connection – is a cheaper way, which is possible due to the lower price of the subscription fee. But in this case, the problem with quality assurance will not be in the equipment, but in the network: the quality of communication will primarily depend on the speed.

Before you start choosing a provider, you need to clarify with him the code that will be needed to access the Internet.
Read more about choosing a provider here.

On a side note – apart from the fact that you must have an operating system installed, be sure to install drivers for that Wi-FI point, which will be used to enter the system.

How it differs from a router

Contrary to what most users think, a modem and a router are different devices. They differ in how they work. A modem is used to convert the signal it receives from digital to analog and vice versa. That is, its task is to receive, convert and then transmit information. It provides Internet access only to one computer and does not distribute it to other devices.

A router is used to distribute an incoming Internet signal to all the devices connected to it. You can do this both through a cable connection and wirelessly. It has a built-in DHCP server function that gives each device its own IP address.

This allows the router to identify which gadget is connecting to it and to which address it needs to send the information. The pluses of such a network include the ability to exchange data within it.

Types and types of modems

Modern devices differ from each other in the type of connection to a PC or laptop. Some are used exclusively within the home or office, while others are used anywhere within the mobile network coverage area. Let's talk more about each of them.

Combined and separate

Combined ones combine a modem and a router, which means they can both convert the signal and distribute the Internet. They are equipped with one DSL and four LAN ports, as well as an antenna and a Wi-Fi module. The DSL connects the telephone cable, while the LAN ports and Wi-Fi network connect all the devices in the house. An example is the D-Link DSL 2640U.

The latter have only one DSL and one LAN port each. The first one has a telephone cable, and the second one has a network cable that connects the modem to the PC. Internet distribution in this case is done by connecting a router to the device. To do this, the cable coming from the LAN port of the modem is connected to the WAN port of the router.

ADSL .

The working principle of their devices has already been described, so we will not dwell on it in detail. We can only say that these devices are equipped with a DSL port, which instead of the standard 8 wires has only 6. To connect it, the RJ-11 cable is used. The disadvantages of these devices include low bandwidth, i.e. limited data transfer speed.

Built-in ADSL modem is represented by a card that is inserted into the motherboard of the PC. It provides Internet access to only one device, so it is not as popular as the combined modems.

Selection Criteria

Before you start choosing a 4G modem, you need to determine the factors on which the quality of communication will depend.

First, this is the operator providing the Internet traffic. It is worth carefully studying all the tariffs in order to choose the best one for you, pay as much attention to the study of coverage areas, so as not to find yourself in a situation when the opportunities of the tariff plan will not be possible to use in full.

The second point is the choice of modem type. If you are sure that in the coming months and years you will not change the operator, it is worth choosing devices that are tied to it. They will cost less and work more stably. If you're not so sure, get a universal gadget. Remember that 4G is compatible with the third generation, and keep in mind that if at a given time there is only a 3G signal in the right place, it does not mean that it will not be replaced by a faster format in the near future.

A big plus will be the ability to connect an external antenna, which can significantly strengthen the signal in an area of weak reception. If you want to have the Internet distributed to several users, buy a usb modem with Wi-Fi module. The settings of such connection are made through a web interface, and the software is included in the package.

Huawei E3372

The speed capabilities of this device are impressive – 150 Mbps for receiving and 50 Mbps for downloading. This device is designed to work with two operators, it has two SIM card slots and one memory card slot. The software, which can be used to configure the gadget, can run under all versions of Windows and MacOS. A socket for connecting an external antenna is also present. The device is able to work with all European and most of the world's mobile operators, so there are no compatibility problems.

Although the firmware is universal, but for major operators (Megafon, Beeline, MTS) are specialized versions of the software. Among the drawbacks we note the heating of the device when working in some modes.

Providers

If the question of how to choose a modem for a laptop based on the type of equipment has been approximately solved, then it's time to choose a provider. Let's say at once that they are absolutely different, each city has its own particular one. However, there are large-scale firms that have branches throughout Russia. For example, Rostelecom. This company provides a huge list of telephone services, including connection to the Internet. It makes no sense to say that one provider is better than another: each city and region has its own special characteristics. There can be a difference even within the same neighborhood.

Then how should you choose? First, the best way is to ask your friends, acquaintances, family and relatives. It is desirable to poll those who live in the same area as you. Find out what kind of provider they use, what the cost of their tariff plan is, and the speed provided by the company. Note that sometimes

Second, you can directly ask these data from specialists and consultants working in your city's branch. Today, no one is particularly eager to deceive potential customers, because you can lose not only one user, but a whole group of others. For example, you can tell everyone about the problems of one provider as part of your issue. Every producer is trying to keep his customer.

What about cellular operators (for USB modem owners)? Here you need to look at the network coverage in the areas where you are going to use the device. Check the work of 3G and LTE in these places, because to sit through 2G in 2017 is somehow not even funny, although in some areas there is still this problem. You will be waiting for the opening of the home page of any search service for several minutes. And at the end you may be surprised that the session time is up. So look only in the direction of networks with high speeds. Also note that you can only take a modem of the operator, whose SIM card you're going to insert there: you can't sit on the Internet with a Megafon card through a Beeline or MTS modem.

Characteristics of the router

What to choose a modem for home Internet according to its characteristics? The main thing here is the bandwidth of the device. In this way you will choose the best modem for the Internet. If, for example, it only supports speeds of up to 50 megabits per second, but your ISP or cellular operator can offer you a realistic speed of 100 megabits, then this device is definitely not suitable for you.

If you choose a Wi-Fi router, then look at the number of simultaneously supported network users. That is, how many devices can connect to it and use the Internet at the same time. Also, specify the range: how many meters the Internet signal travels. The higher this number, the better, since the signal strength, and therefore the surfing speed will be higher.

As for USB modems, in principle, everything has already been said above. There are no special criteria for the characteristics, because the operators themselves choose the best options for parameters.

Powerful router ZYXEL LTE7460-M608

In the rating of 4G routers equipped with a SIM card slot, this device takes quite a high position. The device has a firewall function and supports SIM cards of any mobile operators.

The device is equipped with built-in antennas with a gain of 8 dBi. Thanks to its rugged housing and high signal strength, this router can be installed outdoors. The built-in 4G modem or Ethernet provider's dedicated cable line can be used as the source of Internet signal.

ZYXEL WAH7706.

This hybrid Wi-Fi router with a 4G modem provides LTE category 6 standard, which allows mobile Internet speeds of up to 300 Mbps. Thanks to the dual-band mode of the Wi-Fi module and support for all modern wireless standards, the device is able to provide such Internet speed for all clients connected to it, the number of which can be up to 32. Another advantage of this solution is the support of plug-and-play technology, which allows the device to start distributing Internet from MTS to a private house immediately after installing a SIM card without lengthy subsequent configuration.

ZTE MF825

This is a 4G modem for all cellular operators. Such versatility is due to support for all popular communication standards. It is compatible with a 32 GB memory card.

This modem has a number of positive characteristics:

• ease of operation;
• easy instructions to configure the equipment;
• connection stability;
• absence of hang-ups and drop-outs during operation;
• compatibility with any kind of router.

The lack of connectors for connecting external antennas slightly limits the capabilities of the device.

ZYXEL LTE7240-M403

The new LTE modems of this model are equipped with a 10/100 Ethernet interface and support VPN pass through. The optimal solution for country houses, business trips or out-of-town holidays. The data transfer rate is 300 Mbit/sec.

Designed for outdoor use, this modem will do the job perfectly within a small office. The power of this device is enough to provide a stable Internet connection for a small number of client connections in the country house.

What Iota offers

The virtual operator has the most favorable price for a modem that supports the fourth generation network. The device itself costs only 1990 rubles, and it comes with a SIM card of the operator.

Internet for use on the modem is unlimited, but the cost depends on the selected speed. So, if you compare with a similar tariff MTS, the price per month will be 400 rubles, with a limit of 5 megabits. But if you want to use the Internet without the access speed limit, then in the Sverdlovsk region it will cost six hundred rubles for thirty days.

Results

Choosing the best 4G modem directly depends on the coverage of a particular operator in your city or town. You can buy a modem without being tied to a specific operator, and it may even come out cheaper, even though the cost of the operator's device already includes a certain amount of services. Modems from all operators are sold at virtually the same price – the difference is ten roubles.

The devices offered by the "Big Three" are identical, and the main difference is the branded inscription on the body. If necessary, a device bought from one operator can be used with a SIM card of another, which is especially important if you want to use the services of Tele2. This operator has no special promotions on tariffs when buying a modem.

Separately, it is worth noting the virtual Iota, where you can buy the device cheapest. Data access is unlimited in volume, and you can choose the speed that suits your usage profile and get additional savings on the price.

Modem for home Internet

How to choose which USB modem is best suited for home work? There are several factors to consider:

• You need to decide which equipment suits you best. Some users are more suitable for a full-fledged router, and others – a USB modem. Modem devices do not need an additional power source. The USB port will be enough power for them. Modems can access the Internet through the SIM card of the cellular service provider of your choice. Routers can simply distribute Internet to multiple home gadgets. A router receives traffic through a cable. The advantage of USB modems is their mobility. You can take the device with you to the country house or to travel around the country.
• The choice is between 3G and 4G. In terms of speed indicators, 3G network loses to LTE (4G). New generation networks can provide data transfer speeds of 150 Mbit/sec. The disadvantage of 4G devices is unstable operation in settlements remote from the center. The maximum speed of a 3G modem is about forty megabits per second. These indicators will be enough for comfortable surfing and online movie watching.
• Form Factor. USB modems are available in different models. Widespread are the so-called whistles, made in the form of a flash drive. They are installed in the appropriate slot in the laptop. They are characterized by their compact size and lightness. Manufacturers produce models as standalone devices. They look like a plastic flat box. If a modem combines the functions of a router, it will be able to distribute Wi-Fi network.
• Support for external antennas. It is desirable to choose a model that involves connecting external antennas. For this purpose, manufacturers equip modems with a special CRC9 connector. Sometimes there are situations where the built-in antenna power is not enough for the stable operation of the device. To ensure a normal data transfer speed, users install external antennas.
• Brand. It is desirable to give preference to the products of a proven manufacturer. Quality network equipment is produced by different companies: Huawei, Zyxel, Asus. They produce reliable routers and modems. Not bad devices can be found in the line of the brand ZTE.

How to choose a 4G modem

Below we will consider the best models, which became popular last year:

• MikroTik SXT LTE kit. The device is designed for stationary work. It can distribute Internet from the sim card of the cellular operator to various home gadgets. The device is enclosed in a rugged case that reliably protects it from moisture and dust. There is an Ethernet interface. The RAM capacity is 64 Mb. The device can work with SIM cards of any cellular operator of the Russian Federation. It is an option for organizing a wireless access point. It can be configured through the control panel. It is one of the most powerful and fastest laptop devices. It supports MIMO technology and provides optimum signal strength.
• Huawei E3131 is another popular model from the world famous manufacturer. It can operate in third-generation networks. It is characterized by compact size and light weight. The body is sturdy and reliable. The device is powered via USB. Each user can adjust it without calling the master. The settings are made through a special program. The manufacturer has equipped this model with connectors for additional antennas. They are connected to improve the quality of the signal. Previously, the device was sold by cellular operators Beeline and Megafon.
• Asus DSL-N16. A reliable device that supports ADSL2+. Wireless communication in the 2.4 GHz band. The wireless speed indicator reaches three hundred megabits per second. The model will be of interest to subscribers of the Rostelecom telecommunications company. The manufacturer has equipped the device with four LAN connectors, which can operate at speeds of up to 100 Mbit/sec. In terms of reliability, it is one of the best devices. The protection of personal data is provided by the protocols WEP, WPA, WPA2. The device supports IPv6, DNS.
• ZTE MF 79 is an inexpensive but fast modem. It operates in GSM, 3G networks and supports LTE 4G. It is powered via a USB port. The manufacturer does not provide the ability to connect external antennas. But there is a slot for a 32 GB flash drive. You can configure the device through a special program. This model is suitable for working with a laptop.
• Zyxel LTE7460-M608 is a powerful device for home use. It is an LTE modem with a built-in router. You can install a SIM card of any cellular operator. It is powered via Ethernet cable. The developer has equipped this model with two built-in antennas with a gain of 8 dBi each. The device is suitable for outdoor use, its housing is reliably protected from moisture and dirt. The modem provides a stable, stable signal. Installation and configuration of the device is carried out in a few minutes. Some users complain about the unfinished version of the firmware.
• Huawei E5573. This is a multifunctional network equipment, which can work both with an Ethernet cable and a SIM card of the cellular operator. Internet delivery is possible in the 5 GHz range. User data are reliably protected by WEP, WPA, WPA2. There is a repeater function. This model has a built-in battery. The device works with 4G and LAN.

How to choose a 4G USB modem?

There are a huge number of models from different manufacturers on the market. Let's consider the main characteristics and features of the equipment that you should pay attention to when choosing a 4G USB modem.

Cellular operators use different cellular standards and frequency ranges for signal transmission. Below is a table with all frequencies and standards that are used in Russia.

Sometimes 4G signal disappears during bad weather or is not available at all, or a subscriber wants to switch to a new mobile operator using other frequencies – so the best choice is a modem that works with all cellular standards: FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE, HSPA+, WCDMA, GSM.

3.2 Freedom to choose a cellular operator

Cellular operators offer their own modems – usually they are locked and do not allow you to use another operator's SIM card. For example, a 4G modem from MegaFon will only work with MegaFon SIM cards.

We recommend choosing a 4G modem from a third-party manufacturer so that you don't have to buy a new one if you change your cellular provider. This is one of the main rules when you're thinking about which 4G modem is best.

Internet speed depends on the cellular standards and radio frequency bands that the modem works with. Outdated models can only support 3G and lower standards – in which case the speed will not exceed 42 mbps, the average ping will be about 150 ms. Modern models work with the 4G/LTE standard – speeds can reach 150 mbps (LTE Cat.4 standard) and even 300 mbps (LTE Advanced Cat.6 standard), the average ping will be about 50 ms.

Conclusion

We have analyzed all the main characteristics that you should pay attention to when choosing a 4G modem. You can additionally clarify:

Watch a detailed review of VEGATEL 4G modem on our youtube channel:

If you still have questions about 4G modem selection for your usage scenario – call our toll-free hotline: +7 (800) 707-44-80.

Complete instructions for choosing a 4G modem to ensure high speed mobile Internet in the country, house or apartment.

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