Who offers hybrid mobile broadband backup?
Some UK broadband providers have started to include 4G or 5G backup routers as part of their packages. The majority don’t currently offer this as a service, Virgin Media does but only to select business customers.
BT
BT offers BT Hybrid Connect. This hybrid setup combines fibre broadband and EE’s 4G network as a backup.
In the event that your BT broadband connection goes down, it instantly switches to the EE 4G network, providing download speeds that depend on your local signal strength, but typically offer sufficient speed to keep you online until your broadband connection is restored. Once your broadband is back, the fibre router automatically takes over the connection again.
It comes as monthly add-on cost and is available to all new customers and existing customers who have the Smart Hub 2 router.
EE
The Smart Hybrid Connect is included with the Full Works plan and can be available as an add-on to some other packages. This is EE’s backup 4G connection device that switches automatically to mobile and back again whenever needed.
Vodafone
Vodafone’s premium package, Pro Broadband, has 4G broadband back-up included in its plan. This device is plugged into your Ultra Hub and it will automatically switch to the Vodafone mobile network if your internet ever goes down.
Third-party backup routers
If your broadband provider doesn’t offer a 4G or 5G backup router, or you prefer more control over your setup, there are plenty of third-party options. Brands like Huawei, TP-Link, and Netgear offer standalone 5G routers that can be paired with any mobile data plan. Prices vary, but they can be a good investment for those who need constant connectivity.
Is backup broadband available to everyone?
Not necessarily. Access to backup broadband is limited by mobile network coverage. If you live in an area with poor 4G or 5G reception, even the best backup router will struggle to maintain a connection. Check the coverage maps from your chosen mobile provider before choosing a backup solution.
How do 5G routers differ from 4G routers?
You’ll have noticed that we’ve been talking about 4G and 5G routers. So what’s the difference?
The thing that the customer will notice most is speed and network capabilities. A 5G router can deliver significantly faster download and upload speeds compared to a 4G router, sometimes rivalling fibre broadband. This means smoother video calls, faster file transfers, and reduced lag when gaming.
But, they’ll also come at a higher cost and with less coverage than 4G, 5G is currently only available to about 65% of the UK.
Do you really need backup broadband?
For households reliant on continuous connectivity for remote work, online schooling, or smart home management, unbreakable broadband can be a gamechanger. Especially if you’re in an area that doesn’t have access to the most reliable internet.
But even if you don’t really need it, having an option to always have uninterrupted connectivity and avoiding the annoyance of online disruption will never be a bad idea.
