The new D-Link Mobile Broadband AC Router DWR-118 has arrived, allowing you to combine "multiple Internet connection types" (being fixed and wireless), with the company stating it is "the ideal solution for setting up an Internet connection to share with your family and friends when you are on holiday, or need the ability to ‘fail over’ if your fixed Broadband connection fails".
4G/3G connectivity is not built into the router itself. Instead, you'll need to purchase a 4G/3G USB dongle to plug into the router, which then supports that dongle.
The upside is that 4G/3G USB dongles are quite inexpensive, with newer models always seeming to operate at ever faster 4G speeds, supporting more bands, or even 4.5G and future 5G connectivity, meaning you can always update your 4G/3G dongle as required, rather than replacing the entire router just because a faster way to connect to 4G and future networks has suddenly arrived.
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"This includes those in areas where fixed line connectivity is not always reliable, or businesses that need a reliable way to switch over to the mobile network to ensure their Internet connection is always available. Many POS machines in Retail outlets such as cafés or hairdressers now use the Internet to take credit card transactions.
"If the fixed broadband service fails, you are left with no way to run your business, and this product addresses that, by having the ability to ‘fail-over’ to a mobile service, simply by connecting a compatible 4G/3G dongle to the device.”
On top of this key fail-over capability, we're told that the "router’s load-balancing ability means that both mobile and fixed Internet connections can be used at the same time – making downloads faster and streaming of better quality".
"Households or businesses can also set up Wi-Fi ‘hotspots’ with combined dual-band 802.11AC wireless speeds of up to 1200Mbps, allowing more devices to be connected to the Internet simultaneously."
D-Link also assures us its new router is "great for situations where an impromptu wireless network is required, or where conventional wired network access is unavailable. The DWR-118 can even be installed on buses, trains, or boats, allowing passengers to access the Internet while commuting."
Reardon said, “Whether they have critical requirements for a fast and reliable Internet connection, or are part of a household or business with simple Internet needs, people today want fail-safe, fast connectivity. Using the power of both fixed and mobile networks means faster Internet connections and credible back-up options to make sure that you are always online.”
Pricing, availability and other details are below the image of this new router:
Availability and Pricing:
The DWR-118 Wireless Dual-Band Multi-WAN Router is available at D-Link online for A$149.95, as well as from "all authorised D-Link retailers and resellers in Australia and New Zealand".
No doubt international readers will find this router or its equivalent anywhere good routers are sold in your local area.
Product details:
- Dual-band 802.11ac wireless.
- Shared mobile broadband connection at speeds of up to 1200Mbps.
- Supports 4G LTE/EV-DO/CDMA/HSPA+/HSUPA/ HSDPA/UMTs wireless networks for international compatibility through optional USB dongle.
- WAN failover for an uninterrupted Internet connection.
- Dimension 148x113x23mm.
- Users will need to purchase a separate 4G/3G USB Dongle from any mobile operator, to enable mobile connectivity.
