Oct 3, 2025
Don’t get stressed by the thought of shopping for 5G broadband equipment!
If you’re considering mobile 4G or 5G broadband at home, you might be worried that you lack the technical know-how or up-to-date equipment to get the most from your connection.
The good news is that 5G broadband equipment is simple. If you’ve ever set up Wi-Fi at home before, you’re already most of the way to getting your 5G home internet up and running.
The essential 5G broadband equipment
A 5G mobile broadband router
The most obvious - and most important piece of 5G broadband equipment is a 5G broadband router. Your broadband router is the device that turns a connection to a national network - be it a traditional wired network or a wireless, 5G one - into a home Wi-Fi network you can use.
If you have WiFi at home, you already have a router. While some choose to buy and set up their own high-end router, most households use a router supplied by their broadband company. The same is true for mobile broadband. While you can buy your own router, for top-end devices it’s more affordable to take out a package from a mobile broadband supplier that uses powerful, modern equipment.
While 5G mobile routers have had a reputation for spotty or weak signal in the past, the latest generation of devices offers fast, reliable connections.
A mobile broadband-enabled SIM
While a traditional broadband router plugs into the wall, a mobile broadband router uses a SIM card to connect to the UK’s mobile network.
This doesn’t mean you can stick any SIM card in your router and start browsing, though!
Many mobile providers place limitations on how their SIMs can be used, especially when it comes to high data allowance or unlimited plans. The easiest way to make sure you’re using a compatible SIM is to subscribe to an all-in-one mobile broadband plan that offers a state-of-the-art router alongside a SIM - and ideally can be used across mobile networks.
Extras to boost your 5G speeds
Looking to get more speed from your 5G connection? Just like with wired broadband, there are a few extra pieces of 5G broadband equipment that can help your broadband perform even better.
A Wi-Fi Extender
Just like traditional internet routers, 5G routers can be boosted with home Wi-Fi extenders. These handy devices extend the range of your home network, covering any black spots your router can’t reach.
An Ethernet Cable
A simple way to get better performance from your home internet is to switch to a wired, Ethernet connection. This is only an option for devices with Ethernet ports, such as laptops, desktop computers, game consoles, or printers.
However, if you are using one of these devices, then trading a wireless connection for a wired one can dramatically increase your speed and network reliability.
A quality 5G broadband router should have multiple Ethernet ports in the back for you to connect all your most important devices. For maximum performance, we recommend placing your router in the room you’ll use it most, with wired connections to your most important devices, high up in the room, and away from thick walls.
