* Carrier usage policies can be confusing
Would you consider using a cellular data network service as a last-mile access alternative in small or temporary locations? If so, check with your carrier about the conditions under which this is allowed.
Usage policies vary around the world. You may or may not be able to use the network for this application at all, for example. Or you might have to buy a specific service, priced separately, to do so. And in cases where you’re allowed to run 3G as a multiuser access link, you’ll likely need to use a router certified by the carrier.
The major U.S. carrier usage policy descriptions can be confusing. For example, here’s an excerpt from Verizon Wireless’ policy for its NationalAccess (1XRTT) and BroadbandAccess (EV-DO) data services, indicating that last-mile usage is a no-no:
“Unlimited NationalAccess/BroadbandAccess services cannot be used… as a substitute or backup for private lines or dedicated data connections.”
Still, the carrier offers a stand-alone service called Broadband Access Business Continuity, priced separately, that allows you to use a Verizon-certified cellular router and Verizon’s EV-DO network as a backup link.
Here’s a similar excerpt from Cingular’s 2006 policy: “Prohibited uses include, but are not limited to, using services… in conjunction with…applications or devices which aggregate usage from multiple sources prior to transmission.” Be aware, though, that this verbiage applies to Cingular’s DataConnect individual-subscription service.
The company also has BusinessConnect rate plans, which allow enterprises to use a number of Cingular-certified 3G routers with the Cingular GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA network. Depending on whether you are using the connection as a primary or backup link, there are different starting monthly prices for certain volumes of data usage. Backup connections, for example, start at $27.99 for 10 megabytes of total usage per month. Primary connections start at $79.99 for 50 megabytes of usage and range to $279 for a gigabyte, says Drew McCahill, Cingular director of strategic pricing for business data services.
Sprint Nextel is perhaps the most flexible in its cellular last-mile usage policy in that you don’t have to buy a special service package. You do have to use a 3G router that is Sprint-certified (Junxion, Kyocera or Linksys, for now). But, contrary to what you might deduce based on information on the company’s Web site, there’s no policy that restricts the number of users you can support beyond the limits of the equipment and network access bandwidth, says Sprint spokeswoman Amy Schiska-Lombard.
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Network World, 10/23/06
