3G Backup for ADSL Downtime

[UrbanNomad]

I currently access the Internet via Telkom ADSL and a prepaid data bundle from Web Africa. I am generally happy with the service. However, occasionally my ISP or ADSL connection experience problems, and I can be without conectivity for up to a week, during which time my life falls apart.

The last time this happened I was able to use my iPhone as a Wifi hotspot, which worked very well, until I ran out of data and started paying per Mb (very expensive). MTN advise me that my contract allows me to increase my monthly data package, but not purchase once off add-ons. My monthly data usage by cell phone is minimal, and I don't want to pay monthly for data that I'm not using. Even with the 60 day rollover, my hugely increased needs during ADSL downtime are not met.

My current Web Africa ADSL data bundle never expires. Is there a similar service available in the 3G world? Can I prepurchase, say, a 5MB 3G data bundle, which might only be used eight months from now if my ADSL goes down? If this service is offered by someone other than MTN, how would I connect the data service to my PC? Would I have to swap SIM cards, disabling my regular cell phone service?

Finally, I'm vaguely aware of internet backbones. Can I select a service that uses a different backbone from my current ADSL setup for additional redundancy?

 

[koeksGHT]

Most data bundles last a max of 60 days so you cant have something as a back up like the prepaid ADSL. Just purchase a prepaid 3G data bundle when you need?

 

[UrbanNomad]

Thanks for the reply.

Do I have to buy a 3G data bundle from my cell phone service provider (MTN / Nashua Mobile) or do I have the flexibility to purchase prepaid data from anyone? Does this come in the form of a sim card? Presumably I would need to purchase a 3G modem to access that data.

 

[sajunky]

Cell-C has 3GB promo R399 valid for one year. It seems to be the best option for a backup. It comes with SIM card. Alternatively there is Vodacom Internet Starter Pack R399 (100MB per month for 12 months) - small, but it comes with a modem.

Modem you can buy from 8-ta E367 R699, it works on CellC. Some ADSL routers allow to plug USB modem and automatically switch to 3G for backup. You need more WEB search on this matter.

 

[jeremyd]

just check you coverage though I have had vodacom and cell c refund my money as the promised signal at my house just wasn't there. 8ta said no signal where I live and MTN I'm still waiting for them to get back to me. So where on this remote earth do I live. KYALAMI. I appear to be on the edge of any signal and its not consistent.