Has anyone had any experience with the new 3G routers? Any recommendations on brand or model? This will be a small network, less than 3 machines.

Does this location not have any other service available? Cellular internet would be my last choice for service.

It's a fast growing area and DSL is at capacity, so no new accounts and they refuse to use the local cable company. Satellite is an option but I would think 3G would be as, if not more, reliable.

Don't you have cable available?

I wouldn't recommend cellular internet for any business.
I personally use at&t 3G on my iphone and it is good when it's good, but still very flaky.
If DSL isn't available I would try to push them to the cable option.

My experience is similar to Mike's--it CAN be flaky, especially in metro areas where the towers are already crowded. That, plus it often seems that rebooting the router is the only fix for a dropped 3G network link.

If you DO decide to go with a 3G solution, at least make sure that you hardwire the three workstations to the router. Connecting to the router via Wi-Fi will compound your frustrations.

Is this link of any use to you?

Thanks, I am doing this as a favor for a friend who has a very small office (3 stations). Long story short, he asked me for advice as a friend on what he should do and now I am doing it. Funny how that happens. I will push him more on the cable, I know that the wireless is a bad idea but he is really limiting my options. What about internet via magic or miracle? Is there a router for that?

I work in the mobility realm of my company. I can tell you that I have seen where in some cases, basically back up scenarios the 3G connected in a Digi box for connectivity worked very well or for a temporary thing. Considering the cost of this MIFI at around 50 bucks a month, you would be better off getting DSL or a cable modem.

Is microwave (point-to-point) or satellite an option?

Sam

FWIW, if he is a friend and doesn't value your opinion, it's hard to make the first claim.

Put in what he wants if you can support his constant complaints, otherwise do whats best for him.

Sorry to be blunt, but Hal hasn't opined.

He values my opinion, he just hates the cable company here. If I push it he will do cable, I told him I would look into wireless to see if it is stable enough for his needs. As far as satellite, the only experience I have with it is personal and I had a difficult time when weather was bad maintaining any connection. I may check into pricing on partial T1s as well, he said he couldn't afford a T but I am not sure that he researched it any or if it was a knee jerk reaction when I asked.

Does the LEC offer any services that are competitive? Down here Verizon offers FIOS internet for around $80 a month for very fast speeds...something to look at.

Steve