The idea of wireless mobile communication originated in the minds of scientists at the beginning of the 20th century. Work on the creation of a radiotelephone communication system was actively carried out both in Western countries and in the Soviet Union, however, the first working model of a cell phone appeared only in 1973, when the American company Motorola introduced the world to DynaTac, the first prototype of a portable cell phone.
Today, human life is almost impossible to imagine without mobile devices using wireless communication technologies. Over the past 35 years, 4 generations of cellular communications have changed, and the fourth is being replaced by the fifth generation, the introduction of which is expected by 2020. The history of the development of cellular communications, generations and applied technologies will be discussed in this article.
First generation - 1G
All first-generation standards were analog and had a lot of drawbacks. There were problems with both signal quality and technology compatibility.
Among the first generation mobile communication standards, the following are most widely used:
AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone Service). Used in USA, Canada, Australia and South American countries;
TACS (Total Access Communications System) Used in European countries such as England, Italy, Spain, Austria and a number of other countries;
NMT (Nordic Mobile Telephone - northern mobile phone). Used in Scandinavian countries.
TZ-801 (TZ-802,TZ-803) developed in Japan.
Despite the existing problems with the quality and compatibility of standards, analog mobile networks still found commercial use. The Japanese were the first to do this in 1979, then in 1981 the analog network was launched in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, and in 1983 in the USA.
Second generation - 2G
In 1982, a working group was formed by the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Authorities, called GSM (French: Groupe Spécial Mobile - a special group on mobile communications). The purpose of the creation of the group is to study and develop a pan-European terrestrial mobile communication system for general use.
In 1989, the European Telecommunications Standards Institute continued the study and development of the second generation of mobile communications. The abbreviation GSM then acquired a different meaning - Global System for Mobile Communications (global system for mobile communications).
In 1991, the first commercial mobile networks of the second generation appeared. The main difference between the second generation networks and the first is the digital method of data transmission. Digital data transmission technologies made it possible to introduce the text messaging service (SMS), and later, using the WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) protocol, it became possible to access the Internet from mobile devices. The data transfer rate in second-generation networks was no more than 19.5 kbps.
The further growth of user demand for the mobile Internet has served as an impetus for the development of next generation networks. Intermediate stages between 2G and 3G networks were the generations conventionally called 2.5G and 2.7G.
generation 2.5G designated the GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) technology, which made it possible to increase the data transfer rate to 172 kbps in theory, and up to 80 kbps in reality.
generation 2.7G called the technology EDGE (EGPRS) (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution), which functions as an add-on over 2G and 2.5G. The data transfer rate in such networks can theoretically reach 474 kbps, but in practice it rarely reaches 150 kbps.
Third generation - 3G
Work on the creation of third-generation technologies began in the 1990s, and implementation took place only in the early 2000s (in 2002 in Russia). The standards developed by that time were based on CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) technology.
The third generation of mobile communication includes 5 standards: UMTS/WCDMA, CDMA2000/IMT-MC, TD-CDMA/TD-SCDMA, DECT and UWC-136. The most common of these are the UMTS/WCDMA and CDMA2000/IMT-MC standards. In Russia, the UMTS/WCDMA standard has become popular. Next, we suggest dwelling on the main 3G technologies:
UMTS
UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) is a cellular communication technology developed for the introduction of 3G in Europe. The used frequency range is 2110-2200 MHz. (often 5 MHz channel width). The data transfer rate in UMTS mode is no more than 2 Mbps (for a fixed subscriber), and when the subscriber is moving, depending on the speed of movement, it can drop to 144 Kbps.
HSDPA
HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) is the first of the HSPA (High Speed Packet Access) family of cellular communication protocols based on UMTS technology. This protocol and its subsequent versions have significantly increased the data transfer rate in 3G networks. In its first implementation, the HSDPA protocol had a maximum data transfer rate of 1.2 Mbps. The data transfer rate in the next implementation of the HSDPA protocol was already 3.6 Mbps. At this point, 3G modems gained great popularity and most users had modems that support this particular standard, the most popular models are Huawei E1550, ZTE mf180 (such instances are still found). As a result of further development of the HSDPA protocol, it was possible to increase the speed first to 7.2 Mbps (the most popular modems are Huawei E173, ZTE MF112), and then to 14.4 Mbps. (Huawei E1820, ZTE MF658) The pinnacle of HSDPA technology was DC-HSDPA technology, which could reach 28.8 Mbps. DC-HSDPA is essentially a two-channel variant of HSDPA.
HSPA+
HSPA+ is a technology based on HSDPA that implements more sophisticated signal modulation techniques (16QAM, 64QAM) and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology. The maximum 3G speed can reach 21Mbps. This technology is already 3.5G.
DC-HSPA+
DC-HSPA+ technology with the fastest 3G Internet at 42.2 Mbps. In fact, this is a two-channel HSPA + with a channel width of 10 MHz. This technology is often called 3.75G.
All devices that support 3G networks also support previous generations. For example, the now obsolete Huawei E173 USB modem for 2G/3G networks supports GSM, GPRS, EDGE (up to 236.8 Kbps), UMTS (up to 384 Kbps), HSDPA (up to 7.2 Mbps), i.e. network standards of both the second and third generations. The maximum speed at which this device can operate is 7.2 Mbps. The more "advanced" model Huawei E3131 for 2G/3G networks supports a set of standards, which includes, in addition to the above, HSPA +. The maximum achievable data download speed on this device is much higher and is 21 Mbps. But it should be noted that the maximum theoretical and real speeds differ quite a lot. For example, on huawei E1550, zte mf180 modems, where the maximum speed is 3.6 Mbps, in practice, you can achieve a speed of 1-2 Mbps, on Huawei E173, ZTE MF112 modems (maximum speed 7.2 Mbps) in practice 2-3.5 Mbps, this is subject to a good signal level and low load on the tower of the mobile operator. One of the factors in increasing the speed of 3G Internet is the use of a modem that supports the maximum speed of 3G. We recommend a modem, it not only supports the maximum speed of 3G Internet (up to 42.2 Mbps), but also 4G (up to 150 Mbps). Someone may object and say that there will never be 4G in his "hole", but do not forget that a few years ago you did not even dream of 3G. Technology does not stand still!
Fourth generation - 4G
3G, which has not yet exhausted its capabilities, is being replaced by new technologies, fourth-generation technologies (4G), which are more in line with the demands of the time. 4G generation technologies have set completely new requirements for the quality of the communication signal and its stability.
The LTE and WiMax standards are the brainchild of Hewlett-Packard and NTT DoCoMo joint research in the development of data transmission technologies in fourth-generation wireless networks.
The WiMAX standard was developed in 2001 by the WiMAX Forum, which includes manufacturers such as Samsung, Huawei Technologies, Intel and other well-known companies. Conceptually, WiMAX is an extension of the Wi-Fi wireless standard. Versions of the WiMAX standard are divided into fixed, intended for fixed subscribers, and mobile, for moving subscribers with a speed not exceeding 115 km/h. The first commercial WiMAX network was launched in Canada in 2005.
The LTE standard (Long-Term Evolution - long-term development) is essentially a continuation of the development of the GSM / UMTS standards and did not originally belong to the fourth generation of mobile communications. To date, it is LTE that is the main standard for fourth-generation networks (4G). First introduced by the aforementioned NTT DoCoMo, the world's largest Japanese mobile operator, the LTE standard, in its tenth release, LTE Advanced, has been selected by the International Telecommunication Union as the standard for fourth-generation wireless communications. The first commercial implementation of the LTE network was carried out in 2009 in Sweden and Norway.
The maximum theoretical data transfer rate in LTE networks is 326.4 Mbps. In practice, the data rate depends significantly on the bandwidth used by the operator. MegaFon mobile operator (40 MHz) has the widest frequency range today, which is a serious advantage over other domestic mobile operators that use a 10 MHz bandwidth. The maximum data transfer rate in an LTE network with a bandwidth of 10 MHz is 75 Mbps. Well, the maximum data transfer rate when using a bandwidth of 40 MHz can reach 300 Mbps.
Fifth generation - 5G
Work on the development of new standards for wireless data transmission is not stopping. Mainly with the sponsorship of one of the largest manufacturers of network equipment, the Chinese company Huawei. The widespread introduction of fifth-generation technologies is predicted in 2020. There is no unequivocal information regarding the maximum data transfer rates in 5G networks yet, however, it is known that in pilot tests of 5G networks it was possible to achieve speeds of 25 Gb / s. This is dozens of times higher than the maximum data transfer rates in fourth-generation networks.
The term 3G is used to refer to the generation of mobile services that has replaced the obsolete 1G and 2G. The technology provides access to the mobile Internet at high speed and a variety of Internet services.
Cellular communication systems have been actively developed since the 1970s, and mobile devices themselves are classified according to the generations of users to whom they belong. The first phones belonged to the 1G generation (G - generation). They worked in analog networks and provided poor communication quality. Later, 2G digital networks appeared with improved voice quality and SMS function.
Users gained access to high speed Internet connection in 2002 with the advent of 3G. This cellular communication standard operates at frequencies around 2 GHz. Unlike its predecessors, it is primarily focused on data transmission, and providing voice communications is in second place.
3G speed and other user benefits
The creation of the third generation network marked the creation of a unified mobile communication environment that supports broadband data transmission systems and provides global mobility. 3G is based on IP technology with packet data transmission. This allowed subscribers to be online continuously for the first time. To do this, you just need to be where cellular communication is available.
The 3G communication standard, after its appearance, competed with Internet providers due to the wide possibilities for the user. The benefits of 3G networks include:
- data transfer rate - up to 2 Mbps;
- access to high-speed Internet from anywhere;
- remote access to the corporate network;
- videotelephony;
- streaming video;
- banking services;
- virtual wallet;
- Online Games.
With the advent of 3G, users have the opportunity to make online purchases using mobile devices. Third generation networks allowed the use of the cell phone as a virtual wallet, which became more and more relevant as e-commerce developed.
3G networks have also provided a wide range of business opportunities. Logistics companies were able to optimize the work of vehicle fleets and courier services. Aspiring entrepreneurs got the opportunity to scoop ideas for new startups on the mobile Internet.
What is 3G Internet
3G users get the opportunity to connect to the Internet in different ways:
- via mobile phone;
- through a computer;
- via phone with synchronization with PC.
To establish a 3G Internet connection using a computer, a PCMCIA card and a 3G USB modem are provided, into which you need to insert a SIM card. Another convenient way to connect to the 3G Internet is to synchronize your mobile phone with a PC using a USB cable or via Bluetooth.
Communication quality in 3G network
Among the advantages of 3G, there is a good quality of cellular communication, which was absent in previous generations of mobile devices. Even during peak loads, the new technology began to cover the needs of residents of large cities. Interference during a call and connection problems have been eliminated.
Third-generation networks implemented data protection technology. Due to multi-level coding, the developers managed to ensure the confidentiality of telephone conversations. At the same time, the radiation level was reduced by 4-8 times. 3G-enabled phones have become environmentally friendly.
What is the difference between 3G and 4G
In the early 2000s 3G technology has become a real breakthrough, providing users with round-the-clock access to the Internet and high-quality communication. However, the fourth generation network is now gaining popularity. It is an upgraded version of 3G and provides better performance.
Connection speed
The maximum data transfer rate in a 3G network is up to 2 Mbps, and in 4G - up to 1 Gb / s. These figures are achieved by increasing the number of MIMO antennas. However, in practice, the connection speed on both networks can differ significantly from the maximum, depending on various factors, including:
- mobile device model;
- visited sites;
- server used;
- subscriber's location.
Data transfer technology
3G uses packet switching and switching channels of network nodes, while 4G uses only packet switching. However, the throughput in both networks is the same. The difference between 4G is the technology of IP-telephony, which is absent in the previous generation of mobile devices.
In fact, I have a very good attitude towards modern means of communication, one might even say warmly. After all, it is thanks to them that so many new interesting professions have appeared in the world. People can sit at home with a laptop, not see the faces of employees for months and still do their job - to be observers, journalists, assessors, sms... After all, without such a thing as the Network itself, the principles of searching and distributing data and information, without fast Internet for video communication all these activities would be impossible.
So it’s not worth blaming me in advance for being a neoluddite and hating technology (in particular, mobile), as it follows from the text below, it’s not worth it. I just want to understand how modern civilization depends on technology and what to do if the situation from the series “Revolution” comes to life.
So, back to my favorite topic of comparing today's reality with the past. 15 years ago I had a mobile phone and knew that I needed it for voice communication purely “on business”. There could not be any hourly conversations about anything - the tariffs did not allow, and my phone began to noticeably warm up from a long conversation (and, as I guess, it was heating akin to that in a microwave oven).
10 years ago I went to work in a minibus and listened to a few songs uploaded to a memory card - the volume was just enough for the way there and back. The thought that the phone needs to be constantly held in hand so as not to miss the desired tweet, message, letter, notification, news or some other nonsense that pops up on the screen did not exist.
Today our life is suffering for many. Those that are hung with bracelets, trackers, watches, headsets, smartphones and cameras: everything needs to be monitored, everything needs to be charged. You need to keep track of who answered what, you need to remember to post about how much you have run, you need to post pictures of your food on Instagram, you need to check in foursquare, you need to update your to-do list, crossing off what you have done ... And all this is impossible without good and reliable mobile Internet, for which everyone is so happy now.
Today our life is suffering for many. Those that are hung with bracelets, trackers, watches, headsets, smartphones and cameras.
Users are worried about why the state still does not sell licenses, why they pull and rip off frequency budgets, but no one thinks that life, which is already so difficult (especially with the events that are happening now in the country), will become even more complicated. According to my observations, the flow of news (I judge mainly on Twitter, less on Facebook) has grown several times over the year. If earlier I read the Twitter feed once an hour and could scroll through without difficulty to the last point, now while reading what was written over the past hour, another pack of tweets manages to accumulate - and so on endlessly. Those who have more than 700 followers in their followers can generally read the feed continuously and it will be updated constantly.
I will not argue with the fact that the amount of information is growing, and networks should correspond to this volume. After all, you need to pass through yourself more informational noise, deliver more news, pictures, statuses, boobs and stuffing into people's brains. Networks, maybe, will cope with all this, but will your consciousness cope?
Therefore, I decided to summarize why the good old 2G networks are better than modern 3G. Purely mobile portable technologies in the form of smartphones formed the basis for my reflections. So, here are 5 reasons why 2G is better than 3G:
- Device autonomy. Back in the days of big brick phones, battery power was mostly spent on the radio module for communication. Today, the battery charge is rarely enough for a day: huge screens, constant online presence and high power consumption of chips that operate in 3G mode do not contribute to a moderate energy appetite.
- Device safety, or physical resistance to normal use. I mean that my old Philips Savvy or the same Nokia 3310 could fall almost without consequences. I could open beer with them, gouge someone's eye out, knock on the door. Today, smartphones are fragile sissies, whose huge screens are broken when they fall on the carpet from a height of half a meter.
- Dependence on good network coverage. No matter what anyone says, no matter what arguments about the best penetration of the radio signal at certain frequencies, but I am sure that there was no such scrupulousness to the signal level before. There was a network - the phone rang (it's better not to think about the SAR level). Now, if the coverage is not so hot, then the Internet will work either badly with interruptions, or not at all. And high-quality 3G coverage very much depends on the built-up area, topography and other factors that affect the quality of communication.
- Persistence in hardware. Mobile phones have been used for several years, and it has not become obsolete. Now, new models with “improved” characteristics appear almost once every six months, and if you use a smartphone from the last year of release, then in the eyes of some (read about such in my last essay), you will look like a rogue sucker. Company marketers simply force us to spend a lot of money so that we follow trends and fashion.
- Lack of constant distraction. If you are used to using your smartphone to the fullest, what part of what happens to you during the day, I listed above. Messages, statuses, news, check-ins, video calls... With a 2G phone, only voice was available to you, and then only when you wanted it. It was possible to turn off the phone and fall out of the information space. Now, at least someone and at least somehow, but will get you (statuses about the delivery and reading of the message, “user such and such went to Skype”, etc.).
And yet, despite the fact that 3G is kind of modern and without it we can’t get anywhere, I think that 3G is evil (of course, not absolute - Mikh.Mikh.Poplavsky cannot be surpassed here) and with 2G it was better, calmer and lighter.
Two years ago, RIPI tested the operation of the mobile Internet (the results were published in the journal "SPROS" No. 9/2009, 12/2009). Then the possibilities of access to the Network using GPRS and EDGE technologies were checked. Now they have been replaced by a faster 3G Internet.
We bring to your attention mobile 3G internet test results from three leading mobile operators. The tests were carried out in 2011, but many of the problems identified during it are relevant to this day.
"Third Space"
Currently, companies providing 3G mobile Internet access offer so-called fast modems with a maximum download speed of 14.4 Mbps. While the usual “ceiling” is 7.2 Mbps.
The test involved five Internet modems from the “big three” mobile operators: two modems each from “ Megaphone" and MTS(14.4 Mbps and 7.2 Mbps) and one from “ Beeline” (3.6 Mbps). True, 3.6 Mbit / s modems are already obsolete, but at the time of the purchase of samples for testing, only this modem of the company was presented for sale. Beeline”.
Equipment Specifications
The technical characteristics of the equipment, the declared and measured speeds of the mobile Internet are given in Table 1.
Table 1 "Technical characteristics of equipment, declared and measured mobile Internet speeds"
| Modem type | 14,4 | 7,2 | 3,6 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operator | Megaphone | MTS | Megaphone | MTS | Beeline |
| Modem manufacturer | Huawei | ZTE | Huawei | ZTE | ZTE |
| Model | E1820 | MF658 | E173 | MF112 | MF180 |
| price, rub. | 1999 | 999 | 1790 | 990 | 1685 |
| Supported technologies | HSPA, HSDPA, HSUPA, EDGE, GPRS | HSPA+, HSPA, HSDPA, HSUPA, EDGE GPRS | HSDPA, HSUPA, EDGE, GPRS | HSDPA, HSUPA, EDGE, GPRS | HSDPA, EDGE, GPRS |
| Maximum theoretical download speed, Mbps | 14,4 | 14,4 | 7,2 | 7,2 | 3,6 |
| Maximum theoretical upload speed, Mbps | 5,76 | 5,76 | 5,76 | 5,76 | 0,38 |
| Internet speed declared by the operator, Mbps | n/a | 3,6 | n/a | 2,0 | 1–2 |
| Connector for external antenna | + | + | - | - | - |
| Measured parameters: | |||||
| average download speed, Mbps | 2,62 | 2,02 | 2,28 | 1,87 | 1,54 |
| maximum download speed, Mbps | 3,6 | 3,52 | 3,6 | 3,36 | 2,22 |
| average upload speed, Mbps | 0,85 | 1,07 | 0,85 | 0,95 | 0,30 |
| maximum upload speed, Mbps | 1,24 | 1,79 | 1,16 | 2,45 | 0,35 |
|
About the most important
Of course, for any user of the mobile Internet, first of all, it is important whether the Network is “caught” everywhere, that is, what is its coverage area. However, it was decided not to check this indicator. Firstly, because it is simply impossible to do it on the scale of Moscow, and secondly, now problems with 3G coverage within the capital are extremely rare.
It was much more important to find out:
- to what extent the real Internet access speeds correspond to the declared ones;
- what operators mean by the term “unlimited tariffs”;
- what are the advantages of so-called fast modems.
Unfortunately, in reality, everything turned out to be not as beautiful as on paper.
From heaven to earth
In fairness, it must be said that over these two years, the situation with mobile access to the World Wide Web has changed for the better. Now the Internet for all operators is quite usable. The recoil speeds have also grown noticeably. However, in general, networks are not yet mature enough to provide Internet at the speeds that are indicated on the boxes.
Despite the fact that “fast” modems have a claimed maximum download speed of 14.4 Mbps, by and large, the capabilities of carrier networks have not yet reached the level of 7.2 Mbps. Therefore, as the results of our and not only our tests showed, the real speeds available to subscribers are much more modest.
During the tests, it was not possible to record a download speed of more than 3.6 Mbit / s for any of the participants in the “big three” (in Moscow). However, they claim that ceteris paribus, 14.4 Mbps modems will perform faster than 7.2 Mbps. Indeed, according to the test results, the first ones showed a slightly higher download speed than 7.2 Mbps modems. But this figure averaged 0.3 Mbps (see Table 1).
Agree, the difference is not so significant as to be taken seriously. So the question of whether it makes sense to purchase a more expensive “fast” modem remains open. Perhaps his purchase is a certain investment in the future. But when will it come?
|
Tales of speed
Analyzing materials about the services provided to subscribers by mobile operators, the testers could not explicitly find the most important thing - information about the speed of 3G mobile Internet. Although we carefully studied the data given on the websites of operators, in advertising brochures, on the packages of modems.
First of all, the numbers written in large bold type are striking: 7.2 Mbps, 14.4 Mbps, 28.8 Mbps. But these are the maximum speeds of modems, the theoretical possibilities of technologies, etc. But where is the information about the real speed of Internet access? Of course, it is on the web pages of operators, but it is so skillfully hidden that it was not easy to find it.
Here is a quote from the site MTS:
“For subscriber equipment of classes 7 (14.4 and more) and higher, this speed does not exceed 3.6 Mbps. Higher speeds will be possible in selected local areas as the network develops. For subscriber equipment of classes 4 and 6 (7.2 and less), this speed does not exceed 2.0 Mbps. Higher speeds will be possible in selected local areas as the network develops.”
And here is what he writes about this: Beeline”:
“This is the maximum theoretically achievable 3G speed when using HSDPA technology. On average, in real conditions, the speed is 1–2 Mbps.”
In this regard, the question arises: when operators bring the technical characteristics of modems to the fore, and information about real access speeds is hidden in “hard-to-reach places” and can only be found on the site, does this mislead users? After all, they can take these numbers for the real speed of Internet access, which often happens.
Mobile Internet tariff plans of three leading operators
Table 2 "Mobile Internet tariff plans of the three leading operators"
| Rate | Traffic before speed limit | Price |
|---|---|---|
| “Megafon” 1) | ||
| Package “Practical” | 2.5 GB/month | 500 rubles/month |
| Package “Optimal” | 4 GB/month | 800 rubles/month |
| Package “Progressive” | 8 GB/month | 1100 rubles/month |
| Package “Maximum” | 16 GB/month | 1400 rubles/month |
| Option “Extend speed LIGHT” | 1.5 GB/month | 150 rub. |
| Option “Extend MEGA Speed” | 3 GB/month | 300 rub. |
| Unlimited Internet “Night fast and furious” | Unlimited from 01:00 am to 9:00 am | 100 rub. for connection and 400 rubles/month |
| Daily package “Unlimited Internet - 24” | Unlimited during the day | 125 rubles/day |
| MTS 2) | ||
| Unlimited Mini | 250 MB/day | 450 rubles/month |
| Unlimited-Maxi | 500 MB/day | 750 rubles/month |
| Unlimited Super | 1000 MB/day | 1350 rubles/month 4) |
| Unlimited Internet for a day | 1024 MB/day | 149 rubles/day |
| Turbo button 2 | unlimited for 2 hours | 50 rub. for 2 hours |
| Turbo button 6 | unlimited for 6 hours | 75 rub. for 6 hours |
| Beeline 3) | ||
| Unlimited | 2 GB/month | 495 rubles/month |
Notes:
- The speed is limited to 64 Kbps and restored at the beginning of each next month of using the package.
- The speed is limited to 64 Kbps and restored to the base at 3:00 the next day.
- The speed is limited to 64 Kbps and is restored after the date the subscription fee is charged.
- When buying a set - 675 rubles / month until the end of 2011.
Again “a little unlimited”
In previous tests, we have already encountered the concept of so-called unlimited tariffs, when a client is offered to connect a tariff supposedly without traffic restrictions. The catch is that when a certain amount of downloaded data is reached, the Internet speed is forcibly reduced to 64 Kbps, and further work on the Web turns into torment. However, you will agree that an unlimited tariff cannot be “a little unlimited”. It either has traffic restrictions or it doesn't. In all "intermediate" cases, the use of the word "unlimited" is inappropriate and misleads consumers.
However, the policy of mobile operators regarding tariffs is slightly different. MTS limits the traffic that can be downloaded per day to 250, 500, 1000 Mb (depending on the tariff). After exceeding the threshold, the speed is reduced to 64 Kbps and restored at 3 am the next day.
“Megaphone" and " Beeline” limit traffic for a month. And also the exhausted limit automatically reduces the speed to 64 Kbps and keeps it in this form until the beginning of the next month.
As for the tariff policy as a whole, it is the most flexible for “ Megaphone” (see tariff tables). This company has tariffs with a large amount of traffic (up to 16 GB per month) plus various interesting options. In particular, “Unlimited Internet for a day”, which allows you to download data without traffic restrictions for 24 hours. At MTS there is also a similar opportunity - unlimited for 2 and 6 hours. Such functions can be useful if you suddenly need to download something voluminous in a one-time order. MegaFon also offers the option "Extend speed" - the ability to add 1.5 or 3 GB to the existing monthly traffic volume. U " Beeline” As of May 2011, only one tariff option has been announced with a limit of 2.5 GB per month.
Conclusions of the mobile 3G Internet test
3G Internet works incomparably faster than GPRS/EDGE Internet.
Unfortunately, operators do not indicate the real speeds at which Internet access is provided, but they write only theoretically possible or indicate the technical characteristics of modems.
14.4 Mbps modems are twice as expensive as 7.2 Mbps modems and promise twice the speed. However, if the cost of these devices differs really significantly, then the difference in access speed turned out to be insignificant.
“Unlimited” tariffs are actually far from unlimited. After exceeding the amount of downloaded information indicated in the tariff plan, the access speed is greatly reduced.
The fourth generation of mobile communications - 4G - came to Russia in 2012. And the first subscribers who were able to appreciate its advantages were residents of Novosibirsk, then Muscovites and gradually residents of other cities. The maximum speed exceeds 100 Mbps when transmitting data to subscribers on the road, and 1 Gbps - to fixed subscribers. For comparison: in 3G networks, the maximum data transfer rate is no more than 512 Kbps.
4G LTE by Wifire
Today, 4G service in various cities of the country is provided not only by the Big Four operators, but also by younger companies. In particular, Wifire offers 4G connectivity. The service is available to owners of mobile devices supporting the 4G LTE standard.
The coverage area of Wifire high-speed Internet is constantly expanding. Today, residents of Moscow, Moscow region, St. Petersburg, Orel, Lipetsk, Tver, Cheboksary and Kaliningrad can connect the service. A coverage map can be found on the company's website. You can also clarify whether the maximum speed of Wifire 4G Internet is available in your locality, you can contact specialists by phone.
We emphasize that the maximum Internet speed in Moscow and other cities may be lower than stated due to the distance from the base station, the terrain, the number of subscribers working in one cell. Therefore, it is difficult to indicate what is the maximum speed of the Internet in Russia. In addition, the maximum WiFi speed when using mobile Internet depends not only on the channel, but also on the characteristics of the router. In order for the connection speed to be maximum and the connection stable, you can buy a set of signal amplification equipment and use it in your country house, country house or office.
Wifire Mobile Tariffs
When choosing a mobile Internet tariff, think about why and how often you will go online. If Internet access is needed to read news and check email, then a budget option for 150 rubles per month and a traffic volume of 1 GB will be enough. For more active network users, Wifire Mobile offers 4-8 GB per month. Fans of watching movies online are better off connecting a tariff with 16-20 GB, and those who share traffic with loved ones should take the maximum - 36-40 GB. The size of the subscription fee, which depends on the region of connection and the selected tariff, check on the website or from the call center operators.
To connect Wifire Mobile, you need to send a request from the company's website, indicating the phone number for communication. The SIM card will be delivered by a courier, or you can pick it up yourself from the nearest sales office. After that, the card must be inserted into a mobile device and activated.
Tariffs and services of Net By Net Holding LLC may be changed by the operator. Full up-to-date information about tariffs and services - in the "tariffs" section or by phone indicated on the site.
