Mobile Broadband Vs. Cable Connection

by Julie Ackendorf
Travelers may benefit from mobile broadband over cable broadband.

Travelers may benefit from mobile broadband over cable broadband.

Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

Mobile broadband and cable broadband services both allow Internet uses to get their Internet-ready devices online. While both cable broadband and mobile broadband connect to the Internet, there are differences in the way these two services work. The type of service that is best for one person may not be the best choice for another, particularly if a user travels a lot.

Price Differences

Generally, cable Internet is less expensive than mobile broadband. Price varies depending on the broadband speed a user selects; slower speeds are cheaper than fast speeds. As of the time of publication, cable Internet and DSL prices are between $30 and $60 per month. Most cell phone companies offer mobile broadband, which is usually priced at around $60 per month. Although mobile broadband is more expensive on a monthly basis, cable users who travel a lot may end up paying much more than mobile broadband prices during a month if they are also paying for access to Wi-Fi hotspts when they are away from the home or office.

Mobility

Cable Internet services guarantees some restriction in regards to where a subscriber is able to connect to the Internet. Internet access is limited to the home or office in which the cable modem is located. A wireless router allows Internet users to get online anywhere within the home or office, but connection is lost once the user travels out of range. Mobile broadband services allow individuals to access Internet anywhere at any time.

Security

Individuals who use mobile broadband are guaranteed a secure Internet connection wherever they choose to get online. Cable broadband users are guaranteed a secure Internet connection when using the Internet at the home or office, but users who need to use Wi-Fi hotspots when traveling are at risk because of insecure connections in these places.

Networking Ability

Both mobile broadband and cable broadband services allow a user to create a network that connects other Internet users nearby. With a wireless router, cable broadband users can connect any Internet ready device within the home or office. The same can be said for mobile broadband users.

Considerations

The choice between cable broadband and mobile broadband essentially depends on how often a user accesses the Internet outside of the home or office. If the user mostly gets online at home or at work, a cable network may be the best choice. If an Internet user travels a lot for business or pleasure and often uses the Internet away from home, a mobile broadband connection may be the best and cost efficient.

About the Author

Julie Ackendorf has been a writer since 2007. She has contributed health, legal and parenting articles for various online publications. Ackendorf graduated from SUNY Empire State College, earning a Bachelor of Science in community and human services with a minor in child and adolescent development.

Photo Credits

  • Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images