This article will help those people who have heard about the existence of portable Wi-Fi router ov, but do not fully understand what it is and what this device is intended for. It is also suitable for those who have already decided to purchase a portable Wi-Fi gadget, but do not know how to choose correctly among the many models presented on our market.

Let's start with what kind of device this is and the scope of its application.

A portable Wi-Fi router is a mobile device that receives a signal from the operator’s network and transmits the Internet via Wi-Fi networks. You can connect to it any device that can receive the Internet via Wi-Fi (phones, smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop computers, TVs, IPTV players). Moreover, you can connect several devices at the same time. The portable Wi-Fi router operates in the 802.11 b/g/n standard (up to 150 Mbit/s). The range of the average model is 10-20 meters.

Portable routers can be used in cases where it is impossible to access regular cable Internet and for trips to places with limited access to the Internet (outdoors, fishing, to the country), going to a cafe, library, school. Convenient to take with you on business trips or for presentations. And most importantly, with such a device you can use the Internet even if there is no electricity in the network.

Each device of this type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

• Suitable for connecting via Wi-Fi to almost all devices.
• Own battery, does not require connecting additional power cords through other devices.
• Typically, the Internet tariff is cheaper than on mobile phones and smartphones.
• Stable good Wi-Fi signal.
• The ability to use the router both at home and outside the city.

Flaws:

• You'll have to carry another gadget in your pocket or purse.
• There is no auto-off mode (it’s easy to forget to turn off the device after finishing work).
• Short battery life from 2 to 5 hours, even for models with large batteries no more than 12 hours.
• Some models may work unstably in rooms and car interiors with high temperatures and high humidity. But this is a problem with many electronic gadgets.

Now you can move on to the purchase itself. How to choose the right device for you, because in our stores and websites there are now a large variety that allow us to receive the Internet we so need without wires. When choosing a portable Wi-Fi router, you need to consider a lot of factors.

• Decide on the choice of provider (operator providing services). An important factor is the coverage of a particular operator mobile communications.
• Availability of a connector for connecting an antenna (to increase the signal power of a portable device).
• Operating conditions, whether the device will be stationary or constantly move with you. Here important factor is the dimensions, weight and autonomy (battery capacity) of a portable Wi-Fi router.
• Read the operating instructions, technical characteristics and operating conditions of the device.

When purchasing in stores or communication stores, the sales manager will certainly help you. And when purchasing in online stores, it is better to use the provided filters that will make your choice easier. Or contact the online manager.

In the modern world, a stable Internet connection is a strong sign of a region’s development. Access to a wireless network from a phone from anywhere works only in the largest cities in the world. Pocket Wi-Fi can solve this problem. This modern technology has a number of undeniable advantages. However, it is not without significant drawbacks.

A world without wires

Just 15 years ago, no one could have imagined that the Internet could be wireless. We had to use a phone connection and be content with negligible speeds. Even pages in the browser took a long time to open. Sometimes we had to wait 10 minutes. There is nothing to even talk about the mobile Internet, it simply did not exist. The first mobile phones with the ability to connect to the Global Network did it so slowly that it could take hours to download a picture. Back then, no one could have imagined that one day there would be a pocket Wi-Fi that would make the Internet accessible anywhere and anytime.

We are already accustomed to wireless networks. You always get used to good things quickly, and living without wires is convenient and practical. First, fairly fast mobile Internet came to the market. Networks 2G and then 3G generations. It has become possible to listen to music, use social networks and even view pictures from phones. Then Wi-Fi appeared and literally turned the world upside down.

Inconvenient routers

Anyone who has encountered setting up a router on their own knows that this device does not have the most convenient shape. Yes, if compared to the system unit of a computer, the router will be small. However, you won't be able to carry it in your pocket. The problem lies not only in size, but also in the principle of operation. Large stationary routers require a direct cable connection, which limits transportation options.

Mobility and simplicity

Pocket Wi-Fi is a device similar to a stationary router, but requires the use of a SIM card. What are its advantages? Of course, the main advantage is its miniature size. It even fits in your pocket. Some models may be quite large, but this is because there is no built-in SIM card slot. The advantages of such a device are that you can connect any external modem to it using USB, and, if necessary, an Internet cable. However, such devices are quite expensive.

Pocket Wi-Fi is most often associated with devices from a mobile operator. This is the most affordable option on the market. However, there is no need to delude yourself. You will have to pay for accessibility and simplicity with a number of restrictions. First of all, such routers simply do not provide acceptable speeds. You can sit in in social networks, but don't watch the video. Secondly, internal software involves the use of only SIM cards from one operator. It is possible to insert another one, but the router will not work.

Types of miniature routers

It is customary to distinguish several types of such devices:

• High-speed routers. They are quite expensive, but within large cities they provide the fastest and convenient internet. Most often they operate at speeds similar to LTE. There is only one problem - if it is a router from an operator, then the speed will also depend on the selected tariff. If the SIM card only supports 3G network, then you should not count on LTE.
• Powerful routers. Many people will think that power is similar to speed. This is wrong. This type of router cannot boast of speed. However, you can connect an external antenna to them, thereby strengthening the signal. Work in rural areas and even in the forests. The exception is the taiga forest. Even if the mobile network does not receive reception, you can access the Internet using a connected external antenna. The only drawback of such routers is, oddly enough, the antenna. Everything depends on her.
• Budget routers. A striking example is the pocket Wi-Fi of MTS or any other operator. You can't connect an antenna, it doesn't have USB ports, and it boasts a SIM card limit. Contrary to expectations, it shows decent speed. It practically does not work outside of large cities and functions extremely poorly when connecting several devices at the same time.

How to choose the right model?

Before buying a pocket Wi-Fi router, you need to decide on your own needs. You need to clearly understand why you need a router. If you need an Internet access point for several devices within the city, then a simple router from your operator will do. However, if the very fact of accessing the Internet from several devices in any conditions is important, the best option will choose a powerful router and buy a high-quality external antenna.

Once you have determined your needs, you can start making your choice. It is not recommended to buy so-called know-names, devices from unknown manufacturers. The first thing you should really pay attention to is the manufacturer. Then you need to think about whether you need a port for an Internet cable or if you can limit yourself to USB. The last thing you should look at is the material. However, it is also important, because the router is pocket-sized, therefore, it should be stronger.

How to use?

How to connect pocket Wi-Fi? Very simple! If this is a device from an operator, then insert a SIM card into it, turn on the router and, having previously activated the search for wireless networks in the phone, connect to the desired one. The default name is the model number.

If this is a powerful router with an antenna or high-speed, then you first need to insert the SIM card into a separate modem, then connect it to the device itself via USB. If necessary, connect an external antenna. Turn on the router, find the network from your phone, and you're done!

With the advent of the Internet All areas of our lives have acquired a higher quality level. This applies to work, leisure, service and other things. Therefore, it is very important to always have access to the network. And constantly developing technologies help us with this. If there are no problems with access at home (it is provided by wired Internet), then, being outside the house (in a country house, in nature, in a car, etc.), it saves wireless Internet Wi-Fi. It is he who, with the help of a compact universal pocket device, provides an access point to the World Wide Web anywhere and at any time.

This one is kind of or a battery-powered modem that receives a signal from the network is an inexhaustible source of 3G Internet for any gadgets (up to 10 devices): mobile phones, tablets, smartphones, laptops, game consoles, players, cameras with Wi-Fi, as well as computers . The portable device distributes the Internet to them via wireless Wi-Fi connection. Simply put, thanks to a pocket Wi-Fi router, you always have your own local network in your pocket, allowing you to always be connected.

Types of Wi-Fi routers

There are several types of mobile Wi-Fi routers:

• Stationary or mobile depending on the place of use, power source and type of connection
• CDMA, GSM, HSDPA or dual-standard CDMA + GSM depending on network type
• With or without connectors for an external antenna.

Stationary router It has a large Wi-Fi range, operates from a 220V network (can operate around the clock), and has a USB connector for, which is responsible for receiving the signal. Having received a signal from the modem, the router distributes the Internet to gadgets via Wi-Fi.

Mobile router It has a very compact size, so it easily fits in a pocket, can be transported, and is convenient to use either outdoors or in a car, which gives every reason to call it . A battery-powered mobile device has a built-in modem for receiving signals.

GSM routers receive Internet from GSM operators. Today, 3G is provided only by the operator Trimob, which has poor coverage of the territory of Ukraine.

Maximum coverage CDMA operators Intertelecom and Peoplenet provide, so CDMA routers are more profitable to use. The optimal ones are dual-standard Wi-Fi routers (CDMA + GSM). If there is no coverage, a SIM card is inserted and you can use the services of GSM operators.

Advantages of using pocket Wi-Fi routers

Compact devices easy to use and catch the net at any time and anywhere, because:

• support any communication standards (CDMA, GSM, UMTS, HSDPA, LTE)
• work up to 15 hours without recharging
• have a wide Wi-Fi range of up to 30 meters
• can be connected to a PC via a USB cable.

Having bought a mobile pocket-sized, simple and easy to set up, you can easily create a local network of several (up to 15) gadgets and computers. In addition, wireless ones ensure the security of your network, preventing unauthorized access to your computer, and help you save on Internet bills. Before purchasing a pocket gadget, decide where you will use it (for trips you need a mobile version, and for a summer house, for example, a stationary one is suitable). Also study the operator coverage map. And it is advisable to purchase one with the ability to connect an external antenna to strengthen the signal.

A pocket Wi-Fi router is a portable device that provides Internet reception from cellular operators. Today, the de facto dominant technology is LTE. Operators are trying to master the Advanced option. Formally, the fourth generation is distinguished by one speed. In reality, upgrading 3G infrastructure costs money.

A brief overview will teach those who want to use mobile access to work everywhere. Take the trouble to charge the battery and let's get started!

Peculiarities

A traditional router is too big for your pocket. The rectangular body is bulky and rough. Appearance The compact modem is much softer. The portable version is equipped with rounded shapes, the body is durable and smooth.

Operating principle

The stationary router receives broadcasts via an Ethernet cable. The mobile version is equipped with a SIM card mobile operator. Allows motorists to watch movies, play, surf websites. Hypothetically, the speed is inferior to a wired network. Theoretical maximum 100 – 150 Mbit/s. The actual figures are below.

Sometimes we see a traditional label indicating basic information:

1. Admin panel IP address.
2. Login: Password.
3. Model specific information.
4. Serial number.

Ports

The point distributes the network to gadgets and laptops. Wired ports are limited in number or absent altogether. If you are thinking of updating the firmware, remember this annoying fact. The microUSB port serves the purpose of replenishing the battery charge. The administrator panel interface is, of course, compatible with the vast majority of operating systems. Use browsers.

The lithium battery needs to be charged periodically. The kit is completed with a 220 V AC adapter. Parallel operation and recharging are possible.

Buttons, indication

Resetting to factory settings is done by pressing a single Reset button. In addition, available:

• Power key.
• LED activity indicator.
• Battery charge level.
• Network information (SSID).

Compensating for the modest size of the housing, the LED display is extremely complex. Up to a dozen colors are optionally available:

1. Flashing white – battery is charged, firmware is up to date. Used by the over-the-air software update regulations.
2. Flashing red – there is no SIM card or an error has occurred.
3. No color – the energy has run out, the device is turned off.
4. Yellow – charge, standby mode.
5. Green – gradation according to the mode. Flickering – the LTE network is transmitting data. Permanent – ​​wireless connection has been made.
6. Lilac – speed limit (LTE protocol is not available). 3G technologies are used.

A sophisticated mnemonic system complements the LED color display. Signal strength, remaining battery charge, number of connected subscribers, and roaming are displayed.

Generation

Operators vying with each other to call the equipment the fourth generation. In reality, the developer puts forward the following bitrate requirements:

1. Stationary object – 1 Gbit/s.
2. Transport (planes, trains) – 100 Mbit/s.

A moving antenna consistently loses the lion's share of packets, explaining the more lenient requirements. Providers grabbed the 100 Mbit/s figure with their jaws, considering it the beginning of the fourth generation. Western operators take a compromise - 300 Mbit/s. Readers guessed: the compliance of this technology with the 4G standard is questionable. Make a choice considering the obvious fact.

For now, we’ll call real hardware that provides gigabit Internet a rarity. Foreign subscribers rarely need high-speed traffic. There is no demand, explaining the scarcity of supply. Western companies set an example of proactive marketing:

• MiFi 4510L – fourth generation LTE mobile access point…

The epithets clearly contradict each other. LTE fits the definition of maximum 3G+. Managers take advantage of a little-known fact: initially, the developers of the standard recognized LTE as the fourth generation. Later, the point of view was revised; the boastful statements of marketers remained. The speed of the MiFi 5410L barely reaches... 100 Mbit/s. A real failure.

Protocol

Typical models support IEEE 802.11b, g, n. We will call the remaining options exotic.

Example

The MiFi 620L model provides support for 15 XLTE devices and maintains autonomous operation for 20 hours. Advanced technologies are complemented by powerful control functions.

The 620L wireless router can be connected via a USB cable. Allows you to choose The best way updates. The LED indicator system is formed by a fixed-purpose LED group. Color coding indicates typical equipment conditions (see above).

Supports phone access:

1. CDMA Rev A, 0, 1XRTT.
2. UMTS/HSPA.
3. GPRS/EDGE.

Today modern technologies Mobile devices are increasingly becoming a part of our lives and mobile communication devices are being used more and more often. The presence of portable equipment that allows you to connect to the Internet in any conditions has become commonplace. You can go online outside the city, in public transport, or distribute Wi-Fi at your dacha. But for this you will need a portable Wi-Fi router.

What is this device and why is it needed?

A router, or also called a router, is a wireless device for connecting wireless access (Wi-Fi) to the Internet. It is designed to solve many problems, but the main one can be called organization local network access to Internet resources. Some models can support not only signal transmission at different speeds, but also a wired interface.

This router is designed to communicate with global network, which makes it possible to effectively distribute Internet traffic, and you can also use alternative paths between network nodes. If you have an Ethernet cable (don't forget if you set it up yourself), connect it to a portable one and organize wireless access for many devices. And in nature or in the country, use a device with a SIM card and receive communication from a mobile operator.

How to choose the right one

Before you buy a portable Wi-Fi router, you need to decide on the parameters that will allow you to purchase the model you need. Among the main criteria are:

• Type of Wan ports. This indicator should match your home internet. If it is incorrect, the device simply will not work. Most often, the equipment operates on the basis of a mobile operator SIM card. An example would be portable Wi-Fi routers Beeline, Megafon or MTS.
• One of important characteristics The router can be called the signal speed. If you buy a portable Wi-Fi router, the price of which does not exceed 1000 rubles, then the speed will be somewhere in the range of up to 150 Mbit/s. This option is suitable when used on 1-2 devices. At a cost of over 1,500 rubles, you can count on speeds of over 300 Mbit/s.
• Frequency of operation of routers. There are two options here from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz. Since today routers are present in almost every apartment, the 2.4 GHz frequency can be overloaded and the signal transmission speed may suffer as a result. Using the 5 GHz frequency allows you to get a free frequency without interference. It is also possible to purchase a device that can support several frequencies at once.

Rating of portable Wi-Fi routers

Among the models that, according to Yandex Market reviews, are very popular can be noted.