WiFi is by far the most used method to connect to the internet with computers and laptops. Almost everyone has WiFi at home and free WiFi can be used in more and more places while on the road. Think of large public places, public transport, restaurants and gas stations. But there is not WiFi everywhere. If you always want to be assured of an internet connection while on the road, you can purchase an internet dongle. Such a dongle has a SIM card. This means you almost always have a good connection of 3G or 4G quality via the mobile network.
What is an internet dongle?
An internet dongle is a USB stick that is placed in a free port of the laptop or computer. A SIM card is placed in the dongle. The dongle then connects to a mobile network. Depending on the speed available in the region, you can access the internet with 3G or 4G. You can only use an internet dongle in combination with a prepaid SIM card or a subscription with a mobile provider. It is a solution for people who always want to use the Internet while on the go. Mobile internet is an option at home if there is no WiFi.
Many technical terms
An internet dongle is a somewhat older technology for connecting to the internet. It is a solution that is especially suitable for on the go. At home it is only an option if you are hardly ever there. If you are often at home, there are other and better solutions, such as a WiFi dongle and a WiFi repeater. The big difference with an internet dongle is that these devices use WiFi. A WiFi dongle connects a laptop to a WiFi network. A WiFi repeater strengthens an existing WiFi signal. This allows devices to establish better and faster connections to an existing WiFi network.
Quality depends on the provider
If you purchase an internet dongle, you must realize that the quality of the connection depends on the availability of mobile networks in the region and the dongle. In a region where only 3G is offered, an internet dongle will probably never provide sufficient speed to watch interactive television. If you want to use streaming services while on the road, it is important to choose a provider that offers 4G internet. Naturally, this includes a dongle that can handle this speed. Keep this in mind when purchasing a dongle.
Advantages of an internet dongle
If you need mobile internet on the go, purchasing an internet dongle is definitely a good option. With such a dongle you are flexible, because you can use the internet anywhere, without having to look for a WiFi hotspot first. Due to technical developments, dongles have become increasingly smaller. Because a dongle runs on the laptop's battery via the USB port, they do not need to be charged. In regions where 4G is available, the internet speed is so high that it is a good alternative to broadband internet.
Disadvantages of an internet dongle
A disadvantage of an internet dongle is the low speed in areas with only 3G. There it is possible to perform simple tasks, such as updating the calendar, e-mail and Twitter. But heavier tasks, such as streaming media, probably won't work. Another disadvantage is that coverage depends on the quality of the mobile network. Moreover, the difference in speed with broadband internet is very large in many regions. Mobile internet is sufficient for simple work, but it is certainly not a full-fledged alternative to broadband.
Take data usage into account
An internet dongle uses a SIM card. Most dongles fit a standard SIM card. A disadvantage compared to WiFi is that mobile internet is not free. In fact, if you use a lot of data it can be quite expensive. It is therefore important to choose a provider that, in addition to good coverage and high speed, offers subscriptions that allow you to move MBs around. Then by smartly dividing the joint data consumption of your smartphone and the internet dongle, you can prevent the bill from rising too much.
Buy an internet dongle online
For an internet dongle that suits your needs, go to Mediawinkel.eu. In the webshop you will find a wide range of internet dongles. Compare the price, speed and functionality. If you can't figure it out yourself, you can get advice from our expert customer service. By ordering an internet dongle from Mediawinkel.eu you also have a chance to win nice discounts, because Mediawinkel.eu regularly has attractive discount promotions for loyal customers. All purchases at Mediawinkel.eu are subject to excellent customer conditions. Once your order has been placed, you will receive your internet dongle within a few days.