What is MiFi? Portable mobile WiFi for on the go

What is MiFi?

MiFi means ‘mobile Wi-Fi’. With a MiFi router, you're creating a portable Wi-Fi signal. The big difference with a regular Wi-Fi router is that a MiFi router does not depend on a fixed internet connection. This means you also have reliable internet on the go, without using up your phone's data bundle and battery.

The term MiFi was initially just a brand name, but it has since become a general term for portable Wi-Fi hotspots.

How does MiFi work?

The MiFi router connects to the mobile network via a data-only SIM card. This signal is converted to a local wireless Wi-Fi network. This Wi-Fi network can be used by multiple devices at the same time. With a MiFi router, you don't need a power source to get online.

In 3 easy steps: Getting started with a MiFi router

Using a MiFi router is very easy. We'll explain how to get online with a MiFi router in just three steps.

Step 1: Insert the SIM card into the MiFi router

Most routers support nano or micro SIM cards. Some modern models also work with eSIM. Make sure the SIM card has an active data-only subscription and sufficient data.

Step 2: Connect to the mobile 4G/5G network

Turn on the MiFi router and wait for it to connect to the mobile network. This process happens automatically and is based on your provider's settings and APN configuration. You can often see the connection status and signal strength on a display or indicated by LEDs.

Step 3: Mobile data is converted to a Wi-Fi signal for devices

Once the router has a mobile connection, it broadcasts the Wi-Fi signal. Other devices can now connect to the Wi-Fi network.

What do I need for MiFi?

To use a MiFi router, you need three things to get a MiFi signal.

• MiFi router with SIM card slot
• Data-only SIM card or mobile subscription
• Mobile network coverage (4G/5G) at your location

What can you use MiFi for?

You can use MiFi for any situation where you need more than just a mobile hotspot:

• Internet on the go: Don't want to depend on your mobile hotspot or slow or unreliable Wi-Fi on public transport? If you travel frequently, a MiFi router is ideal for staying online. You'll have a fast connection for your laptop, tablet, and other devices wherever you are.
• WiFi at campsites, on boats, or at vacation spots: At many campsites, ports, and other vacation spots, WiFi is limited or of poor quality. With a MiFi router you can still work or stream without interruptions.
• As a temporary internet solution when moving or renovating your house: A MiFi router gives a more reliable signal than a mobile hotspot. It can also be used with multiple devices at the same time.
• As an alternative to public WiFi: Public WiFi networks in hotels, restaurants, and airports are often not secure. A mobile WiFi hotspot provides you and your family or friends with a safe connection.
• Backup internet connection for working from home: For people who depend on a stable internet connection at home, a MiFi router can be a good backup. If your Wi-Fi goes down, you can just switch to your MiFi network.

MiFi vs a mobile hotspot

You can, of course, turn on a mobile hotspot with your smartphone, but a MiFi router has a couple of advantages.

• Longer battery life than a phone hotspot: MiFi routers are designed for long-term use. Most MiFi routers have a battery life of 6 to 24 hours. That's much longer than you can use a smartphone as a hotspot.
• Your phone battery is spared: With a separate MiFi router, your smartphone is still available for normal use without the battery draining quickly or overheating due to the hotspot.
• Support for more devices: A smartphone hotspot is usually limited to use for a few devices at the same time, because the connection is just intended for your phone. MiFi routers can often provide internet to 10 to 15 devices at the same time.
• More stable and faster internet connection: MiFi routers often have better antennas and are optimized for data connections for a more stable connection. Especially when you use multiple devices.
• Your phone stays available for calls and text messages: With a separate mobile router, you can continue to use your phone for calls, text messages, and apps.

The different types of MiFi routers

• 4G MiFi routers with download speeds of up to 150 Mbps: These MiFi routers operate on 4G LTE networks. Their download speeds of up to 150 Mbps is enough for most online activities, such as email and standard-quality video streaming.
• 4G+ (LTE-A) MiFi routers with speeds up to 300 Mbps: These 4G routers support carrier aggregation and combine the bandwidth of multiple frequency bands. This allows them to reach 4G speeds of up to 300 Mbps. These routers are suitable for intensive use such as HD video streaming and uploading large files.
• 5G MiFi routers with connections up to 1 Gbps: The latest generation of MiFi routers supports 5G use. Depending on your network, you can get much faster internet than with 4G, which is also useful if you use multiple devices at the same time.

Does Simyo support MiFi SIM cards?

Currently, we don't offer any data-only plans with 097 numbers that can be used for MiFi routers. Our SIM cards are always linked to a 06 number. You can still turn on your mobile hotspot if you need reliable internet for your laptop or tablet while on the go.

FAQ - We've got answers

When can you use a MiFi router?

A MiFi router is very useful when you need mobile Wi-Fi for multiple devices. You can use it as a backup for your fixed connection, while traveling, or in locations without (secure) Wi-Fi.

How many devices can I connect to MiFi?

Most MiFi routers support between 10 and 15 connections at the same time.

How long does the battery of a MiFi router last?

The battery life varies between 6 and 24 hours. This depends on the model, the number of connected devices, the signal strength, and data usage. More compact models often have a shorter battery life, while larger routers last longer.

What is the difference between MiFi and a dongle?

A dongle is a USB device that provides one computer with mobile internet via a USB connection. A MiFi router creates a Wi-Fi network that multiple devices can connect to and also works on battery power and without a USB connection.

Can I use MiFi indoors as a backup internet connection?

Yes, a mobile Wi-Fi router can also be used as a backup for your fixed internet connection.

Which SIM card formats are compatible with MiFi?

Most modern MiFi routers use nano SIM cards. The SIM format you need can vary depending on the model.