Mi-Fi devices are small, portable routers that create a Wi-Fi hotspot using 4G or 5G cellular networks. They are useful for travelers, multiple device owners, heavy internet users, and anyone who needs a reliable internet connection on the go. However, MiFi devices may not always deliver optimal performance due to various factors such as signal strength, interference, congestion, or battery life. In this blog post, we will explore some methods to boost the performance of Mi-Fi (mifi) devices and enjoy faster and more stable internet access.

One of the challenges of modern wireless networking is to provide reliable and fast internet access to multiple devices in different locations. This is especially important for industries and use cases that rely on real-time data transmission, such as remote healthcare, smart manufacturing, online gaming, and video conferencing. A common solution to this challenge is to use mobile Wi-Fi devices, which are portable routers that create a wireless hotspot using cellular networks. However, not all mifi devices are created equal, and some factors can affect their performance and quality of service. In this article, we will discuss some of the best practices and tips on how to boost the performance of mifi devices and enjoy a seamless wireless internet connection.

Enhancing RF Coverage with Directional Antennas

One of the most common issues that affect MiFi performance is poor RF (radio frequency) coverage. This means that the MiFi device does not receive or transmit signals well from or to the cellular tower. This can result in slow speeds, frequent disconnections, or high latency. To improve RF coverage, one can use a directional antenna that focuses the signal in a specific direction and reduces interference from other sources. A directional antenna can be attached to the MiFi device via a cable or an adapter and pointed towards the nearest cellular tower or a strong signal source. Some examples of directional antennas for MiFi devices are:

– Wilson Electronics Wideband Directional Antenna: This antenna supports 4G and 5G frequencies and has a gain of up to 10.6 dBi. It can be mounted on a wall, window, or pole and comes with a 20-foot cable.

– Proxicast High Gain 10 dBi Universal Wide-Band 4G/3G/2G/LTE Omni-Directional Outdoor Pole/Wall Mount Antenna: This antenna supports multiple bands and has a gain of up to 10 dBi. It can be mounted on a pole or a wall and comes with a 50-foot cable.

– Netgear MIMO Antenna with 2 TS-9 Connectors: This antenna supports multiple bands and has a gain of up to 2.5 dBi. It can be attached directly to the MiFi device via two TS-9 connectors and has a foldable design.

– TGX.45: A 5G/4G 2xMIMO cross-polarized antenna that features a wide bandwidth that covers all worldwide sub 6GHz cellular bands from 450MHz to 6000MHz. It uses two dipole antennas to deliver the best possible throughput and quality improvements in transmitting and receive signal levels. It has multiple mounting options and comes with low loss cable and SMA (M) connectors. It has a robust IP65 rated enclosure made from ASA.

– Taoglas TG.46: A wideband 5G/4G dipole terminal antenna that covers the 400-6000MHz spectrum and is designed for optimum performance on 5G NR bands between 3.3-4.2GHz. It has a uniform omnidirectional radiation pattern that ensures uninterrupted 5G connection reliability. It also supports lower frequency bands such as 450MHz for IoT applications. It has a metal hinge structure that improves connection reliability and an SMA (M) connector.

We will revisit some of the high gain and directional antenna options in further detail in a future blog post, so stay tuned.

Adjusting Location for Better Coverage

Another simple way to boost MiFi performance is to adjust the location of the device for better coverage. The location of the device can affect its signal strength and quality due to factors such as distance from the cellular tower, obstructions, interference, or weather conditions. To find the best location for the MiFi device, one can use a signal strength indicator on the device itself or on an app such as OpenSignal or Network Cell Info Lite. The signal strength is usually measured in dBm (decibel-milliwatts) and ranges from -50 dBm (excellent) to -120 dBm (poor). Ideally, one should aim for a signal strength of -70 dBm or higher for optimal performance.

Some tips for finding a good location for the MiFi device are:

– Place the device near a window or an open area where there is less obstruction from walls, furniture, or metal objects.

– Avoid placing the device near other electronic devices such as microwaves, cordless phones, wireless routers, or Bluetooth speakers that may cause interference.

– Elevate the device above ground level where there is less clutter and more line of sight to the cellular tower.

– Move away from crowded areas where there may be high traffic or congestion on the cellular network.

Using Broadband Bonding Appliance to Combine and Aggregate Multiple MiFi Devices

One of the most effective methods to boost MiFi performance is to use a broadband bonding appliance that can combine and aggregate multiple MiFi devices into one high-speed and reliable internet connection. A broadband bonding appliance is a device that connects to two or more MiFi devices via Ethernet or Wi-Fi and uses advanced algorithms to split and merge data packets across multiple connections. This way, it can increase bandwidth, reduce latency, balance load, and provide redundancy in case one connection fails.

A broadband bonding appliance can be especially useful for applications that require high performance and reliability such as video conferencing, live streaming, or remote work, or any mission critical application. Mushroom Networks Truffle Lite appliance supports up to six WAN connections (4 Ethernet and 2 USB) and has a throughput of up to 500 Mbps. It also has built-in Wi-Fi features. If you prefer having the cellular modems built into the broadband bonding device, Mushroom Networks Portabella 4000i, Portabella 4000i 5G or Portabella 8000i provide excellent options.

Conclusion

MiFi devices are convenient and versatile devices that can provide internet access anywhere there is cellular coverage. However, they may not always offer optimal performance due to various factors that affect their signal strength and quality. To boost their performance, one can use methods such as enhancing RF coverage with directional antennas, adjusting location for better coverage, or using broadband bonding appliances to combine and aggregate multiple MiFi devices. By doing so, one can enjoy faster and more stable internet access on their devices.

Jay Akin, Mushroom Networks, Inc. 

Mushroom Networks is the provider of Broadband Bonding appliances that put your networks on auto-pilot. Application flows are intelligently routed around network problems such as latency, jitter and packet loss. Network problems are solved even before you can notice.

https://www.mushroomnetworks.com