1. The Signal
  2. Category:Internet Devices

Internet DevicesCategory

What Is A 5G Gateway

3 min read
While the majority of us (55%) will have soon "cut the cord" with our cable providers1 in favor of streaming content online—a lot of people are still on the hook with their cable company for home internet.
Person browsing the internet with tablet
Getty Images/iStockphoto

Let's face it: staying connected at home isn't just a luxury anymore—it's a necessity. Whether you're among the 45% of American households who has someone working remotely 2, one of the 23% who has someone taking classes online2, or you just love to connect to your favorite content 24/7—it's no wonder 5G has become a big buzz word in home internet arena.

For example, T-Mobile, America’s fastest growing Home Internet provider, has begun rolling out 5G Home Internet across the country, which means over 50 million homes nationwide are now eligible for T-Mobile Home Internet3. So, it makes sense that many people have questions about how it all works.

What is 5G? What is a gateway device? What is Wi-Fi 6 ? And how does it all work together to bring you wireless home internet? Let's take a look.

What is 5G?

5G is the fifth generation of wireless network technology. We usually think of terms like 3G, 4G, and 5G in conjunction with mobile phone technology, because that’s what it has primarily been used for up until this point.

However, advances in 5G technology4 can also be leveraged for things like wireless home internet. That's why a company you once only used to power your mobile device may also be able to power your home internet, so you can watch your favorite shows, browse the web, host virtual meetings, and stay connected—no bundles of wires required.

Why do I need a 5G gateway?

A 5G gateway is the means by which 5G home internet is delivered to your home. In the past, you may have needed a network of cables for a modem and router in order to get home internet.

A 5G gateway is different because the connection is wireless. For example, T-Mobile’s 5G gateway device uses Wi-Fi 6, which is the next generation of Wi-Fi technology, and is compatible with T-Mobile's nationwide 5G network. Once you sign up for a plan, the 5G gateway is delivered to your home. No complicated installation. No coaxial wires. No cable guys required. You only need a plug.

It's managed via the T-Mobile Home Internet app you can download to your phone or computer. Once you download the app, you scan a barcode on your 5G gateway, find a good spot in the room, and get connected in under 15 minutes.

How do I get a 5G gateway in my home?

Since 5G is comparatively easy to set up, switching seems like a no-brainer for those of us longing to cut the cord. 5G Home Internet isn't available everywhere yet, but network capacity is expanding all the time. You can check to see if it's available in your area right now.

Can I try 5G Home Internet before I commit?

Before you make the switch, T-Mobile lets you try out 5G Home Internet for 15 days to see if it works for you. Why not make the switch today?

Cancel within 15 days of Home Internet service activation. Limited-time offer; subject to change. Qualifying new Home Internet line and timely gateway return required. Refund via one-time bill credit. Max 1/account. May not be combinable with some offers or discounts.

Sources:

  1. https://techjury.net/blog/cord-cutting-statistics/#gref
  2. https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/press-releases/connectivity-and-mobile-trends.html
  3. https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/t-mobile-5g-home-internet-takes-over-the-northeast
  4. https://bipartisanpolicy.org/blog/cellular-data-and-digital-divide/