What is LTE, and Why Do I Need it For My Business?

In the morass of acronyms, anagrams and abbreviations that make up the technical space, many of us are still left asking, “What is LTE?”

There are a number of very good reasons why we need to understand LTE because these new and emerging technologies are shaping the way we do business – from the smallest SME to the largest global giant.

Deciphering the Tech Talk – What is LTE?

LTE stands for Long Term Evolution.  But that doesn’t tell us an awful lot does it?

Perhaps we need to go back a little further.

LTE is a 4G wireless broadband communication system which was implemented to offer speeds far superior to 3G networks for mobile devices and data terminals. In fact, LTE is up to 10x faster than 3G and is available on most new mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, notebooks, etc.

What is 4G?

Just so we are all on the same page, the G here stands for Generation. So, 4G is logically the fourth generation of mobile data technology that has become available.

4G tech was designed with the capability to enhance voice, data and multimedia speeds, and has done so exceptionally well. In order to be identified as 4G, service providers need to adhere to minimum speed and connection requirements of at least 100 megabits per second for mobile devices, and at least 1 gigabit per second on fixed networks.

A few years ago, these speeds would have seemed totally incomprehensible, and to be fair, they are not always achieved. However, service providers are forging ahead with new technology which allows them to get as close as possible, as often as possible to the 4G minimum requirements.

The Benefits of LTE for Your Business

So basically, what we have is a super-fast communication system linking to advanced devices which are capable of sending and receiving data at phenomenal speeds.

This is great, but it’s also kind of like having a Ferrari and leaving it parked in the garage.

How can we make the best use of LTE for our business?

Reliable Connectivity Solution

South Africa has, sadly, been plagued with poor landline services and failing infrastructure. Cable theft, poorly maintained services and regular equipment failure has (and continues to) cost the South African economy millions each year.

LTE is the silver lining here, notably for small businesses who may not have the benefit of advanced failover systems. An LTE connection provides the speed and reliability that our SMEs so desperately need.

Flexibility For Your Business

When you can work from anywhere, scale up your business or relocate to an entirely new province, LTE is your best friend. Provided there is LTE coverage in the area that you are working from, you really just need to pack up your router and laptop and jump on the plane.

For small or micro-enterprises who may be involved in markets or expos, an LTE connection provides the perfect solution for card payments on the go.

Security

As with any online presence, data security is of utmost importance in this day and age.  Financial transactions, for instance card payments, require secure and managed data connectivity for your peace of mind.

According to the PCI Security Standards (https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/) the breach or theft of cardholder data affects the entire payment card ecosystem, from the customer through to the merchant and financial institution concerned.

Failover Solution

If your business already operates on a fixed line, LTE is the perfect companion for your network. Yes, it can be more costly to use, as data in South Africa is still a little on the high side, but when you have the choice of no connection or an LTE connection – we’re sure you’ll choose the latter.

One of the great things about LTE is that you can purchase data on a pay-as-you-go account which allows you to use it when you need it, and otherwise just allow it to act as your silent backup when the wheels fall off.

Do You Need an LTE Solution?

We feel that an LTE data connection is a no-brainer for South African businesses.

If you need a secure and managed LTE data solution, which has quick deployment and setup, great coverage, a fast and reliable connection and an easy-to-manage solution, then pick up the phone now and call Huge Connect on 27 878 200 220 and find out how we can boost your business.