5g router or PC can function as a router by connecting to your network and managing internet traffic.
5g router or PC can function as a router by connecting to your network and managing internet traffic.
Because of my location I’m limited to expensive internet options like fibre, Starlink, or paying providers with high minimums. 5g LTE routers are overpriced, even decent ones. I’m considering building a simple router using parts, just to receive and send signals via antennas. A PCI card could handle a SIM and a switch, keeping costs low. Networking isn’t my main skill, so any advice would be greatly appreciated.
It seems there are no available 5G PCIe cards meeting your needs on the market, especially not from reputable sources like Sierra Wireless. The options currently exist mainly in m.2 form for laptops, but they won't offer the performance of a dedicated 5G LTE router.
The main constraint comes from the hardware side, not the software. Antennas play a role in signal transmission, but the overall performance is limited by the processor and memory speed.
There isn’t any ready-made solution like pfsense or opnsense that handles a 5G built-in connection. The hardware for sending signals in an M.2 form factor will be constrained by transmit power more than receive power, and it will still face limitations. You won’t find standard antennas to attach; instead, you’ll need to perform complex wiring with tiny connectors that are prone to breaking.
Connect a vintage phone with 5G to a modern laptop or router via USB cable
Find a lasting fix for all your gadgets, not just something that becomes frustrating over time. Your current spot near the rock face (with the house between cliffs) already has poor signal, and setup can be tricky. You’ve dealt with this before and it’s been a challenge, but you’re managing. The connection is still inconsistent.
The equipment you need won’t be inexpensive. However, if you’re prepared to cover the initial expense, consider the Explorer 5G offered by InstyConnect. It’s advisable to reach out directly to InstyConnect to confirm compatibility in your area. In addition, you might contact local 5G or cellular providers who serve your region—they could provide indoor CPE devices for rent. You can install these where strong 5G signals are available and connect them via a switch or AP to broaden WiFi reach. This approach offers lower costs and higher reliability since the gear is tailored for 5G deployment in your neighborhood. There’s also a motivation to increase 5G coverage due to its limited range.
Thanks for the details. I'm evaluating a monthly 5G router priced at three ATMs, and I'm worried about latency because most 5G coverage appears to only offer 4G upload speeds. Appreciate the help!
UK? I used Three 5G for a while as my main connection—it performed well for downloads and gaming, though there were occasional days when it didn’t work at all. Upload speeds often fell into the single-digit range. With Three UK, they offer two APNs: one gives a public IP (good for gaming but more likely to lag) and another uses CG-NAT (fewer problems but causes double-NAT). I believe once the network fully switches to 5G, things will improve significantly, but it’s hard to predict when. I was really happy when FTTP became available—it was a huge upgrade—and now I stick with Three 5G as a backup for faster Steam downloads beyond Gigabit speeds.