How to Get WiFi Without Broadband in NZ

With all its glamour and reliability, broadband internet does have a few pressing flaws. It might not be for you if you're budget conscious; some broadband deals can be expensive, and internet service providers charge exorbitant prices for premium plans. It's also not suitable if you're always on the go.

Luckily, we're here with a solution: we'll show you how to get WiFi without broadband.

Is WiFi Without Broadband Possible?

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Yes, getting WiFi without broadband is possible, but you'll need another internet access source. Using the mobile hotspot feature on your smartphone is the most common solution, but you can also use a portable internet device that can provide wireless internet without a broadband service provider or connect to public networks.

What Is Broadband?

Broadband refers to high-speed internet access that's always on and can transmit a large volume of data.

It's more about the speed and availability of internet connection than particular technologies, as broadband allows users fast, reliable internet access to communicate effectively between online devices and accomplish various tasks, from downloading files to streaming.

Broadband covers different types of connections. They include WiFi, DSL, fibre, satellite internet, and 4G/5G LTE.

Related: Fibre vs. 5G, DSL vs. Cable vs. Fibre

How Can I Get WiFi Without Broadband?

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You'll still need an internet service provider to offer you a data plan or a service for internet connectivity. Getting WiFi without an internet provider means relying on a public WiFi network or a friend, which comes with many risks and challenges.

Here are the different ways to get WiFi internet access without broadband:

Mobile Hotspots

Hot-spotting is sharing your smartphone's cellular data with other devices via WiFi. You'll need a SIM card with a mobile data plan from your mobile phone carrier to do it. Most modern devices support hot-spotting, so whether yours does shouldn't be a concern.

This method allows you to create a mobile WiFi hotspot that other devices can join, so make sure you encrypt and secure it with a password and monitor the usage of each device. Configuring your hotspot can be done via Mobile Hotspot or PdaNet+ if you have an Android device.

What to Consider While Using Mobile Hotspot

You must ensure your carrier's coverage stretches to your area. This is important because it dictates the speed and availability of your connection; anything below a 4G connection is frustrating to use.

You'll be sharing your mobile data with other devices, so ensure you have enough allowance and set a data limit. Some providers limit the data you can use or charge extra for tethering. So, try to avoid activities that use a lot of bandwidth.

USB Modems

USB cellular modems are devices you plug into your laptop or desktop. They enable you to have an internet connection that you can share with other devices. You can buy a USB modem from internet providers or online retailers.

Again, you need a SIM card with a data plan and a USB cellular modem—what we said about mobile hotspots applies here, too. The difference is that you'll create a WiFi hotspot using your computer or laptop instead of a mobile device; they'll become a wireless hotspot other users can join.

To do this, use the network settings on your computer (Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Hotspot on Windows 10/11; System Settings > General > Sharing on macOS) or third-party software like Connectify Hotspot.

What to Consider While Using USB Modems

They're also susceptible to fluctuations in internet speed and stability depending on the network service and signal strength. So, ensure you check your carrier's coverage map before buying an internet stick.

Portable Cellular Router

Portable routers also provide internet access to multiple devices using a SIM card with a mobile data plan. They create a WiFi network other users can join. So, you'll need sufficient data allowance to sustain stable, fast internet connections.

Portable routers look like standard WiFi routers, but you don't need to plug them into a wall or leave them in one place. This makes them ideal if you have issues accessing broadband or are always on the go.

What to Consider While Using Portable Routers

Portable routers can be more expensive than WiFi with a broadband connection, and they also face the same limitations as internet access using mobile plans: signal strength and coverage.

Public Networks

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This is straightforward: head to any public space with a public WiFi network and connect to it. You'll find many public WiFi hotspots in city centres, especially around public parks, restaurants, and coffee shops. They're a way to get some work done without fuss, as most public spaces offer high-speed internet nowadays.

What to Consider While Using Public Networks

Public networks aren't safe. You must use a VPN to protect your computer or mobile device from hackers or third parties. They're not encrypted nor password-protected, so other individuals on the same WiFi network can access your browsing data.

Also, public networks can be slow sometimes since multiple devices are connected to them simultaneously.

Ask a Friend

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Asking a friend is also a solution. Your neighbour may be willing to share their internet connection with you, and you can negotiate splitting bills or paying a fee.

What to Consider When Borrowing an Internet Connection

Your internet connection will probably be much slower because WiFi routers have a limited range, and you'll likely be far from the access point. You'll be stuck with subpar speeds and signal strengths unless your neighbour uses a range extender.

Other ways to get WiFi without broadband include fixed wireless, where radio signals transmit data between fixed locations and a wireless tower, and satellite internet, where satellites provide internet to any location on the planet.

Wrapping Up

Getting WiFi without broadband is possible. Mobile hotspots, USB modems, and portable routers can help you avoid lengthy internet contracts and pricey monthly bills while ensuring you remain online when you need it most.

Of course, assess the strength of each option to find what suits you best. The most common ways to get WiFi without broadband rely on cellular data; you'll need a SIM card with a data plan from your carrier. So, consider your budget and your internet service provider's coverage and data plans.