Boost Speed On 4G 5G Internet Router

The 4G/5G mobile SIM card routers wirelessly connect to the widely deployed cellular towers to acquire the internet. There are many factors that could impact the mobile internet speed. You can follow the steps below to check the speed level and find solutions to boost your mobile internet speed and improve connection stability.

Low and High Mobile Internet Speed

The internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). To check internet speed, you can visit a speed test website. Then, choose a server from your internet service provider (ISP) or a nearby server for more accurate results.

Suggest testing multiple times and calculating the average, as the website may experience server latency. In the local settings, suggest connecting to the 5.8G WiFi hotspot or connecting wirelessly to the LAN port. Ensure that other devices connected to the router are not consuming excessive traffic while running speed tests.

• 0–5 Mbps – Very slow speed
  You can perform basic online activities, such as reading and sending emails.
• 5–25 Mbps – Slow speed
  You can stream videos on a few devices.
• 25–100 Mbps – Fast speed
  You can work from home, stream HD video on one or two devices, game online, and support a few smart devices.
• Above 100 Mbps – Very fast speed
  You can stream 4K (Ultra HD) video on multiple devices and support many smart devices in your home.

Debug and Boost Internet Speed

When your internet speed is slow or very slow, refer to the introductions below to compare and check your settings. These are common factors that significantly affect internet speed.

1. Modem & Router Hardware

The technical standards of mobile modems and routers play a crucial role in determining their peak performance. For applications that require high-speed data transfer, consider using higher-grade mobile modems and advanced router specifications, such as a 5G-NR modem paired with a WiFi 6 router.

Check more about the mobile modem category and different WiFi standards. You may need to upgrade the old modem and router to achieve better speed performance.

Multiple Intranet Devices

When too many devices are connected to the same router, the average speed for each device can decrease. If one or more devices are consuming a lot of bandwidth—such as during video streaming or downloading large files—it can slow down the speed for other devices on the same network. You can set Quality of Service (QoS) rules for lower-priority devices to ensure that the primary devices have a faster and more stable connection.

Compare Router vs. Phone

Many users may compare the internet speed with a mobile phone, but this can lead to misleading results. Unlike routers, which convert mobile data into shareable WiFi and LAN connections, mobile phones connect directly to cellular towers through their built-in modems. This means that routers experience greater attenuation during data processing. However, if both the router and the mobile phone have identical modem capabilities, the router may be faster due to its ability to upgrade to higher-gain antennas.

2. Optimize Firmware Configurations

The 4G/5G router operates on a Linux-based system, allowing it to access mobile networks, manage local network traffic, and control wireless hotspots. You can log in to the router to check and monitor its performance. If you experience a slow internet speed, please review the mobile APN settings and firmware version.

Mobile APN Address

In most scenarios, it is necessary to enter the correct APN (Access Point Name) address for the mobile modem. Leaving the APN blank or entering an incorrect address may result in disconnection or slow speeds. You can contact your mobile provider to obtain the APN parameters associated with your data plan. Then, refer to the APN configuration tutorial to set it up on the router’s mobile interface.

Upgrade Router Firmware

The router’s firmware is essential for optimal performance. Incorrect configurations or outdated firmware can lead to mobile internet disconnections or slow internet speeds. Upgrading to the latest firmware version typically resolves most connection and speed glitches. Please check your router’s firmware version and consider upgrading it. Click on the firmware guidance collection to view our outdoorrouter firmware tutorials and releases.

3. SIM Card’s Data Plan

Carrier data caps and throttling rules are often overlooked when experiencing slow speeds.

Most data plans have a data cap, typically ranging from 20 to 30 GB per month, even advertised as “Unlimited Data.” Once the monthly data cap is exceeded, the mobile internet speed will be throttled to a low level until the start of the next month.

Additionally, some mobile providers may throttle speeds if suddenly consume excessive data, and it usually resumes to normal after 24 to 48 hours.

Priority and Congestion

Data plans differ in their connection priorities, which become more evident during busy hours and periods of congestion. The business or commercial grade data plans have a higher priority than consumer and economical plans. If your budget allows, consider switching to another mobile provider or upgrading your SIM card’s data plan. Alternatively, you can experience normal speeds by reconnecting during off-peak hours.

4. Improve Mobile Signal Quality

The quality of mobile signals has a significant impact on the stability and speed of internet connections. In 4G and 5G networks, the core indicators are RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) and SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio). These metrics indicate the strength of the signal and the level of noise interference.

Please refer to the signal test tutorial to learn more about these signal indicators and how to conduct a field test.

Optimize Antenna Array and Location

Please ensure the correct mobile antennas are tightly installed on the routers’ antenna sockets. Most antennas are vertically polarized, so they should always be directed upward. 

Obstacles like buildings, walls, trees, and even weather conditions can weaken mobile signal strength and slow down internet speed. To improve signal reception, consider installing your router in an open area with fewer obstructions or near a window or door.

i. Reduce Signal Interferences

To avoid commutative interference between antennas, the mobile antennas should not be placed too closely together. It is recommended to maintain a distance of at least 5 cm between indoor whip antennas. For outdoor antennas, ensure that they are at least 3 meters away from other antennas and electric power wires.

ii. Upgradable High-gain Antennas

Most of our 4G/5G routers support upgrades to outdoor high-gain antennas. Depending on the radio frequency band and working period, larger antennas usually offer higher gain and greater efficiency. Upgrading to these outdoor external antennas can enhance your mobile signal quality and boost mobile internet speeds. Please note the coaxial cable connecting the antenna to the router: shorter cables are generally better due to reduced signal attenuations.

iii. Vs. Mobile Signal Booster

A mobile signal booster receives and amplifies 4G and 5G mobile signals. It could effectively improve mobile phone call quality. However, due to a significant increase in the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that leads to unstable internet connections, it is not recommended to use SIM card routers with mobile signal boosters.

Debug and Technical Assistance

After adjusting the router’s firmware settings and antenna placements according to the instructions above, please restart the router and retest the speed. It’s recommended to connect to the router’s LAN port or the 5.8GHz hotspot for getting a faster connection speed.

If the speed level is still not as expected, please contact us for a complete diagnostic. We offer free remote technical assistance for OutdoorRouter products.