MiFi
A MiFi router is a revolutionary new product and is ideal for anyone who connects to the web with multiple devices.
MiFi Mobile Broadband
With MiFi mobile Broadband, you can connect your phone, iPod, laptop & even share your connection with others nearby allowing you to take your WiFi network with you on the go.
At present, you can choose between 3 MiFi and Vodafone MiFi devices. 3's device is called the 3 E585 MiFi and Vodafone's is named the Vodafone Mobile WiFi R201.
What is MiFi?
The MiFi is a combination of a mobile broadband dongle and a battery powered WiFi router in a single device. This allows users to take a WiFi Internet connection with them wherever and whenever they’re on the move.
How does MiFi Work?
Your MiFi connects to the 3G mobile phone networks and uses the connection to create a mini wireless broadband connection.
Who would benefit from MiFi Mobile Broadband?
Unlike a standard USB modem you can connect multiple devices to it at the same time to share the connection.
It's handy to have around the home and whilst you are out and about to share broadband with, say, a couple of laptops and an iPod Touch.
Business users could call on it to quickly set up a WiFi network when they’re not in the office, perhaps whilst travelling in a car or by train.
The more you think about it, the more useful it seems to be.
What are the advantages of having MiFi Mobile Broadband?
The MiFi's small size means it's very easy to carry around. It's about two thirds the size of a mobile phone and is also extremely light at just 90g, so you can easily stuff it in a laptop bag, your handbag or in your pocket without worrying about it weighing you down.
Having your own portable wireless hotspot means you don’t have to play the SIM swapping game if you have multiple devices or, worse still, have multiple 3G contracts, one for each device.
MiFis are really easy to set up too. Unlike dongles, no software needs to be installed before using them for the first time, so you’ll be really to surf the web within minutes of purchasing this.
In-Car WiFi
3 has recently lauched a sister product to the MiFi, In-Car WiFi. It's essentially the same product but has designed especially for the in-car environment.
The In-Car WiFi system allows users to utilise motorways and highways where the 3G signal is at it's best so it brilliant for browsing on the move.
The 3 In-Car WiFi comes with an in-car WiFi adapter kit and a charger and initially will be available on PAYG only.
MiFi and iPads
There’s no doubt that if you have a device like the WiFi-only iPad, the MiFi is the ideal way of getting it connected online, anywhere.
How many people can use a MiFi at the same time?
MiFi products can be shared by up to five users. In order to pick up the signal each person must be within around ten metres of the MiFi.
Future generations of MiFis are likely to offer a longer range as well as the chance to connect more users.
How fast is MiFi mobile broadband?
MiFi mobile broadband provides connection speeds of up to 7.2Mb, however the exact speed you are able to achieve will depend on your on location. This is expected to increase with the arrival of 4G networks in a few years time.
Users are likely experience some slowdown when the signal is being shared by more than just one person.
What should I be looking for when purchasing MiFi Mobile Broadband?
Firstly, have a think about how much you intend to use your MiFi. If you intend on using it for Internet browsing only, a small data allowance such as 1GB per month will suit you fine. If you intend to listen to music and download things too, it’s advisable to go for a larger data allowance such as 5GB or 15GB monthly.
Secondly, think about where you’ll be using your MiFi. Will you be mainly using this in your car? If so, think about getting in-car MiFi.
Thirdly, have a look to see if the MiFi providers are offering any free gifts. Providers often have promotions where they give away an iPod Touch with MiFi mobile broadband or free texts.
MiFi Deals
At the moment, 3 are offering a free iPod Touch with MiFi mobile broadband. This also comes with a free MiFi router and includes 80 free text messages a month.
3’s PAYG MiFi Deals are also very competitive with many of them coming with a pre-loaded data allowance.
Many Vodafone MiFi deals come with a free MiFi router and ample data allowance.