Welcome to the Broadband Genie forum. We only have a few simple rules here so please take a moment to read through before posting. Also check the frequently asked questions below as you may find your query has already been answered.
No CAPS
You might be angry at your broadband provider but typing your comment in capital letters isn't the way to get it across. It's hard to read and generally considered bad form anywhere on the internet. If your comment makes a good point our moderators may take the time to change it all to lower case, otherwise it will simply be rejected.
No swearing
We don't mind a bit of light cursing, but really rude words will either be edited out or result in the post being rejected.
Don't insult other posters
This is a friendly community, abusing others is frowned upon, and may even result in tutting and finger-wagging.
No personal details
With the exception of postcode for coverage checks, please don't post any personal details such as phone number or address, even your own.
Only post once
All comments on the site are moderated so when your post is submitted it will not appear immediately. You don't need to submit it again, it will usually be approved the same day.
** Frequently Asked Questions **
Q) Can I use mobile broadband abroad?
Probably the most frequently asked question on the forum. The quick answer is: yes, but it can be very expensive.
Your inclusive data allowance will not count outside the UK so you'll either pay a high per-MB charge or have to purchase additional data bundles specifically for overseas use.
Also remember that coverage abroad may be patchy, 3G access is not guaranteed. For more information about MBB outside the UK please see our MBB abroad guide. You'll also find many previous posts here in the forum about using mobile broadband overseas.
Q) How do I top-up my dongle?
Methods for topping up vary between providers. Read the PAYG guide for more information on topping up, or check the other threads about this subject.
Q) How do I check network coverage?
It's essential that you check the signal before buying a dongle, and you can do it using the network checks for each provider:
T-mobile
Vodafone
3
Orange
O2
Just keep in mind that these are a guide only, buildings and other obstructions can affect the signal and that may not be reflected in these online tools.
Q) Why is my mobile broadband so slow?
To get the best speed you need a 3G signal so check that first (look at your dongle software control panel or consult the manual to find the meaning of the status light on the dongle itself) and use the above links to see network coverage in your area.
For more information about what can affect your connection and tips to improve speed have a read of this blog post.
Q) Do any providers offer more than a 30 day expiry on pay as you go credit?
No, not at this time. The last company to offer this was Vodafone but it was quietly discontinued some time ago. Credit on PAYG broadband will typically expire after 30 days.
An alternative worth considering is a 'pay per day' deal which allow you to pay a small amount for one day or one week of access. There are also some 90 day deals offered by T-mobile and 3 mobile broadband, these have a higher up-front cost but give you a set amount of usage for a longer time.
Another option is Samba Mobile, which gives free credit in return for viewing ads. This earned credit does not have an expiry
Q) Where can I find the number for my dongle?
Check the paperwork that came with the dongle or pull the SIM card out - it's printed on the SIM itself.
Q) Which mobile broadband dongle/deal is best?
There's no one package which is the best, all have their own plus and minus points. The most important thing to consider is network coverage in the area which the dongle will be used, check the coverage maps as linked above and once you've found a network that offers a strong 3G signal start looking for the best price.
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