There are still places where fixed-line broadband is either unavailable or slow, and situations such as trade shows and outdoor events where fixed-line services are inappropriate.

Yes, you can turn many mobile phones into Wi-Fi hot spots, but what if you prefer wired connections for security? Or if you want to use 4G as a backup for an unreliable fixed line? That's where the $249.95 D-Link DWR-921 comes in.

It has the usual router features such as firewalls and VPN support, four 10/100Mbps Ethernet ports plus a WAN port, and Wi-Fi b/g/n (at up to 300Mbps when used with n clients).

But slip a standard-sized SIM into the slot on the back panel and the DWR-921 can share a mobile broadband service (up to 150Mbps down and 50Mbps up) with wired and wireless devices.

When the WAN port is in use, the DWR-921 can automatically failover to 3G/4G for continued operation.

"The DWR-921 is an ideal solution if broadband availability is an issue but 3G/4G Mobile connectivity is available," said D-Link ANZ managing director Graeme Reardon.

"In this day and age, many people work from various locations, and it's often not feasible to have a fixed-line broadband service such as ADSL or cable available in these areas. With the DWR-921 it's as easy as sliding in a standard-sized SIM, and connecting to the Internet.

"You can then easily share this fast 3G/4G internet connection with others at the work-site or at home, often with faster speeds than a fixed-line service. The DWR-921 could also be used as a backup for homes or businesses in the case that their primary internet connection goes down, to ensure they can remain productive."