How does internet access via a mobile network work (4G and 5G)?

Internet access via a mobile network is flexible, and with 4G/LTE and 5G it's ultra-fast. Here you'll find our how to connect with the internet flexibly and conveniently with a FRITZ!Box for 4G or 5G.

Using mobile broadband on our smartphones has changed our lives: quickly send your friends a message or a picture, or see how to get from A to B – and so much more.

Modern Long Term Evolution (LTE) or 5G mobile networks are even so fast that they can also be used for internet connections at home: Download rates of 300 MBit/s and more are available in many places via LTE, and the 5G standard will eventually achieve download speeds in the Gbit/s range – large updates, streaming or online gaming are therefore possible quickly and conveniently via mobile.

Overview of mobile communication standards

GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications):
GSM is a standard for mobile communications which was first deployed in the 1990s. General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) provides data rates of up to 55 kbit/s. Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) accelerates the second generation of mobile network to a maximum of 220 kbit/s. GSM is still important today for industrial applications and for older mobile phones.
UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System):
The first mobile devices with UMTS were able to transmit up to 384 kbit/s. The HSPA and HSPA+ (High Speed Packet Access) improvements increased the maximum download speed to 42 Mbit/s. Many network operators are now switching off support for third-generation mobile network technology in their networks – in favour of LTE and 5G.
LTE (Long Term Evolution):
In the first development phase, LTE transmitted up to 100 Mbit/s.
LTE A (LTE Advanced):
LTE Advanced designates improved transmission technology in LTE mobile networks. LTE Advanced now achieves speeds over 1 Gbit/s.
5G / 5G NR (5G New Radio):
The fifth generation for mobile networks, known as 5G, further increases speeds – data rates are expected to reach up to 10 Gbit/s in the long term. Other key benefits of 5G include reduced latency and better energy efficiency. However, this requires special devices or other Wi-Fi frequencies.

Router freedom - in the truest sense of the word!

Internet access via mobile means you're connected almost anywhere in the world. Thanks to router freedom, you get to choose which device go online with. You can also take your mobile data connection with you and even use it in other European countries.

In addition to a FRITZ!Box with a mobile network interface, all you need is the SIM card with the right plan and a nearby socket and you can go online – as long as the network coverage allows it.

It should be noted that mobile networks are a shared medium. All users share the available capacity of a cellular base station. When there are multiple simultaneous accesses to the mobile network, the speed for each individual is therefore reduced.

When is a mobile connection the right choice?

Mobile internet access has a number of possible uses, for example when other access technologies are too slow or not available where you are.

Even beyond this, there are many practical usage scenarios. With FRITZ!Box, you simply take your mobile network connection with you and enjoy the features of FRITZ!OS wherever you are: in your holiday let, camping or in the gazebo at home. In a professional context, a FRITZ!Box with a mobile network connection can be practical: If you are often on the road and need internet access at different locations, you can take a fully configured home network with you and have it ready to use right away – for example, to supply a construction site or for craftspeople working outdoors.

The mobile network can also serve as a 'second line' for fallback protection. Many FRITZ!Box models have a socket for connecting a mobile network stick. This means you're covered should the regular internet connection fail. In this case, too, you can still be reached by phone, the POS system remains operational and there are no interruptions while working from home either.

Keep an eye out for the best plan

For mobile internet access, you'll need a suitable data plan. There are different plans that cover different purposes. The most important thing to take a look at is the data allowance. Even a normal level of surfing can generate a considerable volume of data, and video streaming can also consume several gigabytes per hour – depending on the quality you select.