bOnline offers 4G and 5G business broadband to keep your business connected with fast, flexible internet, with no fixed line required. This guide explains the difference between 4G and 5G, the benefits for your business, and how to check coverage in your area.
4G and 5G broadband: what is the difference?
4G broadband: fast, reliable internet suitable for everyday business needs such as file sharing, video conferencing and streaming.
5G broadband: delivers higher speeds and lower latency than 4G, supporting more demanding applications and multiple connected devices with minimal delay.
Benefits for your business
Speed: faster internet for smooth video calls, file transfers and day-to-day operations.
Low latency: especially with 5G, ideal for real-time applications and communication tools.
Flexibility: quick to set up, particularly useful in areas without access to traditional fixed-line broadband.
Scalability: supports multiple devices, making it suitable for growing teams and businesses.
How to check coverage in your area
Before ordering, use one of the coverage checkers below to confirm 4G or 5G signal is available at your business address:
How do I know if my service uses the EE or Three network?
Your bOnline 4G or 5G service runs on either the EE or the Three network. Check which one you are on before using a coverage checker, so you get the right result for your address.
Look at your SIM card. It shows whether it is an EE or a Three SIM.
If you are not sure, log in to your my.bonline portal, open your contract and go to Details. If the tariff name includes "EE", you are on EE. If it does not, you are on Three.
Then use the matching checker with the postcode where your router is installed:
How do I check for network outages in my area?
If your connection has dropped or is not working, check whether there is a known outage with your network. Use the status checker for the network you are on and enter the postcode where your router is installed:
If the checker shows an outage or planned work, it will be fixed by the network and you do not need to take any action. If it shows no issues and your connection is still not working, contact bOnline support.
Why are my speeds slower at certain times?
If the Three network status checker shows a message about heavy usage in your local area, this is a busy-area notice, not an outage or a fault. When many customers connect through the same mast, data speeds can vary, particularly at peak times. Moving your router closer to a window can help. See Where should I position my 4G or 5G router?
What if the problem is the network?
If the network status checker shows an outage, planned work or a busy-area notice, the issue is with the mobile network in your area. We can't fix network issues or send an engineer out for them. Once you've checked your router and SIM using the steps in this guide, please monitor your service. Outages and planned work are fixed by the network, and during busy periods speeds can vary and usually improve. If you'd like to talk it through, contact bOnline support.