What is the difference between Wi-Fi and cellular?

Wi-Fi communications are provided via your router, and internet access is available through your internet service provider. Your router may have two band types, 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz (explained below).  Comparatively cellular service is managed by a number of 3^rd party cellular providers and does not require a router.  Cellular service is available in 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks (explained below).

 

What is the 5G cellular network?

In telecommunications, 5G is the fifth-generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks, which cellular phone companies began deploying worldwide in 2019. 5G is intended to be the next step in cellular technology, supplementing 4G networks. Ultra-broadband service is intended for very high bandwidth applications or use cases that require lots of information to be transferred.

 

Is the Mobile Link Cellular accessory compatible with 5G networks?

No, but it is compatible with 4G networks, and because 5G is built upon the same infrastructure, 4G service is not anticipated to end for the near future. 4G range and availability vastly exceeds 5G service today and in the near future. For more information on Mobile Link network compatibility, see here: Is My Wi-Fi Network Compatible With Mobile Link?

 

Is 5G cellular the same as 5.0 GHz router band?

This is a common point of confusion. The 5G cellular network is not the same as a 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi network.  5.0 GHz is an indication of the frequency in which information is broadcasted.  5G literally means the fifth generation of cellular technology. 

 

What is the difference between 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz on my router?

2.4 GHz is what is used for most IOT devices in the field. This network typically has lower internet speed, however more stable. 5 GHz tends to have higher speeds, however a very unstable network that cannot reach as far.

 

Is Mobile Link Wi-Fi compatible with 5.0 GHz router bands?

No, Mobile Link is not compatible with the 5.0 GHz router band. Mobile Link requires the longer-range 2.4 GHz connection to successfully connect further distances due the proximity of the generator to the router. See here for more information: Is My Wi-Fi Network Compatible With Mobile Link?

 

What if I get my internet service through 5G cellular?

Even if you do this, you will have a Wi-Fi router connected to this 5G-provided internet service. The router will then convert the 5G cellular signal into a 2.4 or 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi network.

 

What if I have a poor Wi-Fi signal to my generator?

If your signal is low, you may purchase a Wi-Fi extender and position it at the midpoint between the generator and the router. If signal is still low, you may purchase and install a Wi-Fi/Ethernet accessory, or a 4G LTE cellular accessory.

 

What happens if I don’t have a 2.4 GHz network?

If there is no 2.4 GHz band broadcasting, you may be able to go into your router settings and enable this band. If this is still not working, you can purchase a Wi-Fi extender and use the extenders capability of broadcasting a 2.4 GHz band.

 

What if my mesh network doesn’t differentiate between a 2.4 and a 5.0 GHz network?

Most mesh networks will offer both networks available, and only the 2.4 GHz will appear when attempting to connect a generator. If it combines the two networks into a single network, you need to talk to the router manufacturer to isolate the 2.4 GHz network.

 

Experiencing frequent Wi-Fi disconnections?

Upgrading to the Connectivity Cellular Accessory is recommended for users who wish to add connectivity to their generator or users experiencing ongoing connectivity issues. It is compatible with more generators and uses multiple carrier networks to offer greater coverage. Basic (free) and Premium cellular plans are available for users of this device. See here to upgrade: Connectivity Cellular Accessory.