What is MiFi & Is It Worth It?

Whether you’re working on the go or travelling the globe, having strong and permanent internet access is a must in the modern world; it’s literally the key to staying connected.

If you’re tired of walking your laptop round a coffee shop trying to send that vital email on patchy public wi-fi, or constantly buffering TV episodes while you’re on the train, or just slow downloads any time you’re on the move, then now is the time to meet MiFi.

MiFi is the new way to take broadband with you. It makes it easy for you to create a portable internet connection, wherever you are and whenever you need.

Here’s everything you need to know about MiFi; what it is, how it works and why you should use it. 

Let’s start with the basics, what is MiFi? 

MiFi, also known as mobile or portable Wi-Fi, is a small, wireless device that allows multiple users to share a mobile broadband  internet connection. It basically acts as a mobile hotspot for any of your devices, including mobile phones, computers, and tablets.

So, how does it actually work? MiFi devices connect to the mobile network using a SIM card, similar to those used in mobile phones. Tablets usually have a slot where you can insert a data SIM, or you can take your own MiFi router with you.

When you get online using portable Wi-Fi, the device will connect you to the internet using a 4G or 5G network. The signal can then be transmitted to several devices, meaning the whole team can be online during a work trip, or the whole family can be connected whilst abroad. 

A mobile Wi-Fi router is a smaller-sized, battery-powered version of your home broadband router that – crucially - you don’t need to plug in. MiFi devices tap into a particular 3G, 4G or 5G network, offering internet connectivity to multiple devices.

Though MiFi is not designed to be a long-term replacement for Home Broadband, it’s the perfect solution if you’re looking for a way to access the internet using more than one device whilst on the go.

MiFi is a secure, permanent and mobile internet connection that helps you get online from almost anywhere. It doesn’t take up a lot of room and it’s really easy to use. You don’t need to worry about finding a Wi-Fi network, you just need mobile signal and network coverage. MiFi also allows multiple users and mobile devices to share a connection simultaneously.

If you regularly travel for work or leisure, then you would definitely benefit from using a mobile Wi-Fi router. MiFi gives you far more flexibility than standard mobile broadband and allows you to create a localised Wi-Fi hotspot, no matter what.  It’s much safer and more reliable than public Wi-Fi in cafes and train carriages. Portable Wi-Fi is also a great alternative to fixed broadband for students living in short-term accommodation or for those who don’t have access to Home Broadband.

When you depend on portable Wi-Fi to access the internet while on the go, you need a network and Mi-Fi router you can rely on. Our network already covers 99% of the UK outdoor population, meaning you can get online with the Huawei 4G Plus MiFi from almost anywhere. And we’re always investing to make our network better, with an increasing range of 5G options.

Our 4G Plus MiFi is also incredibly easy to set up. You don’t need to install any software on your devices. Simply switch your mobile Wi-Fi router on and you’re good to go. We also offer next working day delivery too, so you can get connected as soon as possible.

We always recommend using our Coverage Checker to determine whether you can get adequate coverage wherever you are.   

When you’re using the Huawei 4G Plus MiFi, it will connect to Three’s 4G network and provide fast, stable Wi-Fi that can be shared with your friends, family and colleagues. It has maximum download speeds of 300Mbps and can connect up to 32 Wi-Fi enabled devices.

The cost of portable Wi-Fi really depends on your chosen plan. At Three, we offer 1-month, 12-month, and 24-month data plans to suit you, starting from £22 a month with 6 months half price. You can choose between 10GB, 40GB, and unlimited data allowances, depending on your internet needs.

If you’re happy with your current mobile MiFi hub, dongle or tablet, you can get online using our Pay As You Go Data SIMs and Pay Monthly Data SIMs.

If you’re ready to stay connected on the move, you can check out our mobile broadband online and find the best MiFi deal for you. Or visit us in person by finding your nearest store.