Feb 23, 2026
Curious about 4G and 5G home broadband, but not sure where to start? This is mobile broadband, explained.
Mobile broadband is an increasingly popular way to get online, but many people still have questions about the technology.
We’ve broken down the essential information about using mobile broadband at home to help you make the best choice.
How does mobile broadband work: 5G home broadband explained
While it might feel like new technology, using mobile broadband at home is a lot like using any other internet connection. The biggest differences are that setup is simpler, your connection is more flexible and speeds are often much higher than conventional broadband.
When you connect to 4G or 5G home broadband, here’s what’s happening:
Your mobile broadband router has a SIM card fitted inside, just like a mobile phone
Using the same technology as your phone, your router connects to the global network of 4G or 5G mobile internet
Inside your home, your router creates a powerful local WiFi network you can connect your devices to
With the router as a go-between, your laptop, PC, tablet or games console can connect to the mobile internet network simply, reliably and (depending on the provider) without a data cap
What do I need to use mobile broadband?
All you need to get online with mobile broadband is a dongle or router, plus an active SIM card with a data allowance. Most mobile providers restrict the use of their SIMs for mobile broadband, so make sure you’ve bought a plan designed for mobile internet.
For working from home, or your home’s primary internet connection, we recommend a dedicated router over a dongle. The more powerful network hub will allow you to connect more devices and offer a more stable connection.
Read more about mobile broadband hardware here.
Home broadband, no installation needed
Even in 2026, traditional home broadband relies on an outdated physical network of cables installed at street level. This means your options for wired broadband are restricted by where you live, which providers service the area and whether there are any available connections at the time you need them.
Mobile broadband removes this issue by using the widely available UK mobile network. The 4G network covers more than 99% of the UK, and 93% of homes can access a Superfast 5G connection.
Rather than waiting for an engineer’s appointment to come and install your broadband, or requiring you to drill holes through the walls of your home, mobile broadband set up couldn’t be simpler.
Just unpack your router, insert your SIM card and plug the router into the wall. Your router will connect to the existing network, and you’ll be online in minutes.
How fast is 5G home broadband?
5G mobile broadband offers a high-speed alternative to traditional broadband. Wired broadband networks across the UK still rely on old-fashioned copper cabling for part of their signal’s journey, limiting maximum speeds. Meanwhile, 5G broadband users experience average UK-wide speeds of up to 205 Mbps.
Where to buy 5G home broadband
Many customers assume you can only buy mobile broadband direct from a mobile company, but there’s another option.
Here at Connectivity, we offer mobile broadband plans that are simple, flexible and powerful. Unlike other providers, we guarantee:
Network flexibility - connect to the strongest mobile network in your area, even if it changes
Truly unlimited data, as standard
No mid-contract price rises - always pay the price you signed up for
No credit checks
Next day delivery across the UK
Find out more about how we compare to other mobile broadband brands and order your 5G plan today.
