A dongle is a small USB 'internet stick' that allows you to access online services on a compatible device without needing to connect to Wi-Fi.
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It is also known as a Wi-Fi dongle, USB modem, internet stick, USB network adapter or USB mobile broadband stick. Dongles are a fairly popular addition for laptops because they can stay connected on the go.
USB internet is another term used for accessing internet services via an internet dongle since most dongles are connected to your laptop via a USB connection.
A Wi-Fi dongle is, in effect, a small internet-connected device you can plug into your computer or laptop. It connects to the internet in the same way your smartphone does, via 4G and 5G networks.
This means you'll need to pay for internet access, and you'll only be able to use it with one device at a time. You'll also need to make sure it will connect properly to your device - some dongles need a USB port, but some can connect wirelessly, usually via Bluetooth. So make sure the device you want to use is compatible with it.
A mobile internet dongle is no substitute for a fixed broadband line in your home because it usually just works for one device at a time. But its versatility can make it incredibly useful for certain people.
Why you should get a mobile internet dongle:
If you travel a lot and need to be able to access the internet on your laptop without having to rely on free Wi-Fi from Starbucks or airport lounges
Similarly, if you like to work in public spaces but don't want to rely on poor, unrestricted Wi-Fi, you could save yourself time and effort with a mobile internet dongle
If your home broadband just isn't fast enough, or there are too many people using it at once, a mobile internet stick is a great backup option if you need to get online on your device quickly
Here are the benefits and downsides to using a mobile internet dongle for getting online at home, and when you're out and about.
The introduction of 5G mobile broadband means a dongle is now a serious alternative to fixed-line home broadband. This will depend on the coverage of 5G in your area, which is constantly growing but only really available in urban areas right now.
Mobile broadband is quick and easy to set up and doesn't require an engineering appointment
Dongles are supplied for free when you take out a contract
USB dongles give you greater flexibility, allowing you to access the internet when away from home or the office
Developments in mobile broadband technology have seen mobile dongles become smaller, sleeker and faster in recent years
Mobile broadband dongles run on the battery of your computer or laptop, meaning you don’t need an additional charger for them
4G dongles are still the most common types of mobile broadband sticks, but it has comparatively slower average speeds than many fibre broadband packages. This would make it difficult to do high-data activities like large file downloads or 4K streaming, especially while someone else is using the internet too.
Coverage is dependent on the mobile reception in your area, so the mobile 'not'-spots that have you cursing your network provider might also affect your mobile broadband connection
Unlike home broadband connections, mobile broadband usually has monthly data limits
Overseas charges have come down, but it's still not cheap to use a dongle abroad
Broadband dongles use the same 3G, 4G and 5G technology as a mobile , so nearly all mobile providers offer mobile broadband. The market is simply too competitive not to.
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Otherwise known as a wi-fi dongle or USB modem, a dongle is a small modem that allows you to access 3G, 4G or 5G data (depending on your dongle plan) by plugging it into a USB port on the device you’re using.
Dongles are ideal when using your laptop in airports, cafes, or even taxis, where internet access isn’t always guaranteed. They can also come in handy when travelling or staying somewhere new. If you live in a big property, a dongle can be used in areas wi-fi can’t reach, although it won’t provide the best connection for data-heavy activities such as streaming, unless a speedier 5G network is accessible.
Some dongles use a SIM card to create their own Wifi network when plugged in like you do when you hotspot from your , while others connect directly to the internet, without generating a signal.
Depending on what you use broadband for and when you use it, you may want to consider one of the following for connecting to the internet instead:
Pocket Wifi modems are sometimes confused with dongles but in fact, double up as routers and modems in that they have the ability to connect several devices to a data network at once. Its battery can last for a few hours, and is self-powered: you do not need to plug it in to the USB, in other words.
But do bear in mind, using multiple devices can quickly gobble away at your data if you are not on a truly unlimited plan. As with a dongle, you have the flexibility to take it with you wherever you go.
You can purchase SIM cards with a data plan that can be inserted into compatible tablets, laptops and equipment.
You may have noticed a wi-fi hotspot option in your smartphone’s settings. This can effectively turn your mobile into a router that can allow other devices to access its data connection. It will, however, drain your data quicker than using it directly through your .
Home broadband that connects to a mobile data network as an alternative to the NBN.
Your devices will be connected either to a 4G or 5G network, depending on your provider and the area in which you live.
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