Wireless Broadband: Do You Need It?

Home wireless broadband provides super fast wireless internet access, delivered on New Zealand’s 3G or 4G network. It enables both home and business users to obtain speedy data access through cellular networks, without the need to rely on a physical connection.

 

The high speeds and reliability of NZ wireless broadband allows Kiwis to easily complete online tasks, whether they’re at home or the office. From checking emails and social media to streaming music and movies, wireless broadband is the perfect solution for all types of internet users.

 

If you’re not already on a wireless broadband connection, you may be wondering: do I need it? Wireless broadband - also referred to as fixed broadband - is a huge upgrade from a standard ADSL connection. There are heaps of benefits to reap upgrading to wireless, regardless of whether you’re a low, moderate or heavy type of user.

 

To help you determine if this type of connection is right for you, we’ve gathered everything you need to know about wireless broadband.

 

When do you need wireless broadband?

 

Although the majority of New Zealanders already have wireless broadband in their home or business, there are still some who are missing out. For those who are considering upgrading to wireless internet, here are all the benefits you’ll get to enjoy:

 

• More range of connectivity
• Ability to share files and photos with other devices that are connected to the network
• Less expensive than wired internet
• Low cost/free installation (depending on the internet provider)
• Can access internet from multiple smart devices
• Fast speed internet
• Ability to browse on the go
• High speed data downloads
• Freedom from messy wires and cables
• No need to rely on a physical connection
• Provides a neat and tidy environment
• Easy installation and maintenance

 

Those who are still on a wired internet connection are likely to be living in rural areas, where there isn’t very good cellular coverage.

 

However, with Chorus working hard to install more fibre-fed cabinets across the country, there’s more rural locations that can now get wireless fibre broadband. You can check to see if you can get rural wireless broadband here.

 

When might you not need wireless broadband?

 

Although wireless broadband comes with an extensive list of benefits, there are of course, disadvantages to this type of connection as well. Here are some things to consider when deciding if you need wireless broadband or not:

 

• Wireless broadband is not available in all areas in NZ
• The connection can go bad due to bad weather conditions
• The connection can also get worse the farther you are from the modem
• Setting up a wireless network can be difficult for some 
• Wireless broadband connections are easier to crack than wired ones
• May require extra costs for setup and equipment
• Connections can be obstructed by everyday household structures and items
• Speeds can vary considerably depending on location in relation to the network

 

It may seem like there are a lot of disadvantages to wireless broadband, but the majority of users don’t experience many or any of these issues. Therefore, the pros definitely outweigh the cons!

 

Who needs wireless broadband?

 

Wireless broadband can benefit a wide range of internet users. Whether it’s a family of four living in the suburbs or a centrally located business with ten staff members, a fixed wireless connection is the ideal option.

 

First, it’s best to determine what sort of an internet user you are. It’s also important to take into account exactly how many people in the property will be using the connection:

 

Low users

These are your typical internet streamers that only have a few devices connected to the network. Low users mainly use their broadband to check emails, social media platforms and browse the internet. 

 

Moderate users

These users generally consist of families, flatties and small businesses. Moderate users are often streaming, gaming online or downloading, with a more than a few connected devices.

 

Heavy users

These are usually heavy gamers, developers and businesses with a large number of connected devices. Heavy users need speeds upwards of 25MBps to cater for their online streaming, gaming, and downloading.

 

Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons for each type of internet user:

 

	Streamers (Low to moderate users)	Gamers (Moderate to heavy users)	Developers (Moderate to heavy users)	Businesses (Heavy users)
Pros	Reason 1: Supports multiple devices simultaneously   Reason 2:  Can connect to broadband without sitting at a dedicated computer	Reason 1: Easy access from any location on the property   Reason 2: Multiple users can game at the same time	Reason 1:  Simple and cost effective setup   Reason 2: Flexible bandwidth speeds	Reason 1:  Connect anywhere within radius of router   Reason 2: Easily share files with other users on the network
Cons	Reason 1: Slower connection when multiple users are streaming   Reason 2:  Rain, fog and high mountains can affect the quality of service	Reason 1:  Can get expensive for best speed/data allowance package   Reason 2: Possible connection interferences	Reason 1:  Doesn’t compare to wired network speeds   Reason 2: Wireless networks are easier to hack than wired ones	Reason 1: Doesn’t support roaming   Reason 2: Connection is not 100% reliable

 

 

Get started with wireless broadband

 

Convinced that you need to get on the wireless internet bandwagon? Ready to make the switch over to fixed wireless broadband? Here at Compare Bear, we’ve made it easy for you to find the right plan!

 

Head on over to our broadband comparison tool where you can compare great value plans from New Zealand’s leading internet service providers. Just let us know a few details about your internet needs -  and we’ll list the best broadband bundles and deals around.

 

Best of all, our comparison services are 100% free for you to use!