Get connected with Best Internet Call: 0861 444 899

Friday, April 3, 2020

How Does LTE Work?

While fibre deals are the popular choice when it comes to internet connections, many parts of the country struggle with coverage. If you’re on the go or don’t have fixed-line options, you probably need an alternate internet connection, ideally an LTE deal! Portable LTE internet does have its benefits and can sometimes be a better option, depending on your lifestyle. Let’s look at how an LTE connection works.

In the past, people would never dare to think that their mobile phones would be able to access a plethora of information, at our fingertips; awaiting our exploration into the vast world of the internet or communicating beyond time zones with friends and family all over the world in real time!

Looking at where it all began:

The development of mobile phone generations has evolved over the years giving us new technologies and advancements to enjoy. Kicking off mobile communication networks back in the 1970’s, 1G operated on analog technology that utilised higher frequencies that connected to various network towers and only reached speeds of 2.4Kbps. Due to these frequencies, there were multiple problems like dropped calls and voice distortion.  

2G was brought about in the 1990’s, using digital communications, vastly improving communications with the advent of other networks like CDMA and GSM which allowed data to pass through more effectively and improved security of data. During this time, various other technologies were introduced to support 2G standards that improved speeds and stability through transfers. If you remember the little “GPRS” or “EDGE” icons at the top of your phone screen back then, you’ll realise that your phone used one of the first true mobile internet experiences that allowed you to send and receive SMS, MMS messages and use some instant messaging platforms.  

The new millennia brought about the life changing experience of 3G. Most smartphones today operate on this generation of mobile network and allow us to easily connect to the internet and browse web pages, access emails and social media. 3G works on a system called UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System). There are various systems and standards that need to comply with the IMT-2000 requirements to determine 3G status and thus work together to bring us this fantastic service.

Over the last decade, the advancements made to the mobile network industry has been phenomenal; bringing forth 4G and LTE internet technology! 4G technology is managed on a different frequency band, giving you specific bandwidth, allowing you to achieve speeds that surpass 3G! Operating on IP based technology, data is transmitted more efficiently and faster to and from systems, as there is no need for data translation. Everything moves swiftly from one point to another. It is worth noting that this flow of data is dependent on coverage, therefore many LTE internet service providers will advise you to check your coverage and that your device supports 4G technology to ensure that you receive these speeds.  

LTE known as Long Term Evolution is the evolutionary technology behind 4G cellular networks. LTE internet speeds are reached when the mobile network is faster and more stable than a normal 4G network. With LTE speeds you’re able to maintain a connection much like your average fixed line internet connection, giving you the same stability and reliability, making it a great alternative to the likes of a fibre connection. You can trust LTE to be way faster than ADSL, allowing you less buffering time and quicker download speed.  

So why opt for an LTE internet deal?:

  • If you do not have access to any fibre options and still want to experience fast internet, LTE is the option for you. LTE internet gives you better speeds and stable connection compared to an ADSL line for example.
  • LTE deals are cheaper than purchasing single bundle data from your mobile carrier. Unfortunately, there are various providers that offer data at unrealistic prices. Many providers offer only 1GB between R100 to R150 whereas you can opt for a deal with an ISP like Supersonic that gives you 120GB for R399. Check that deal out here.
  • If you live a lifestyle that is on the go; you probably spend less time at home. A portable LTE internet deal with a Mi-Fi router would suit your needs, allowing you to stay connected while out there.
  • You don’t want to get stuck onto a 24-month contract. Most Internet service providers offer month-to-month deals, giving you room to move.

Creative Copywriter
Palesa Malefane
Join our newsletter
We’ll send you a nice letter once per week. No spam.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
We care about your data in our privacy policy.