A bonded router works by combining two or more internet connections into a single, faster, and more reliable connection. Here’s how it works:
1. Combining Connections
By joining multiple connections together, a bonded router effectively increases the total available bandwidth. For example, two separate 0.5Gbps download and upload internet connections could be bonded into a single download and upload connection with bandwidth approaching 1Gbps.
2. Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
Internet providers use SDN technology to join multiple connections. Bonding is achieved when multiple internet lines are combined into one aggregated pipe to deliver a faster upload and download speed with increased reliability.
3. Types of Connections
In principle you can combine almost all modern internet connections, including FTTP, FTTC, Fibre, 4G/5G, ADSL, Microwave internet (fixed wireless link), LEO Satellite (Low Earth Orbit Satellite) such as Starlink, any Ethernet connection, and more. Not all bearers combine effectively – the latency of connections needs to be similar for best results. In some cases failing over from a fast connection eg Fibre to say bonded cellular will be a better strategy.
4. Failover Protection
If one of your connections goes down, the router can simply use your other working connections and not put traffic through the failed one until it is restored. This ensures no data will be lost, but will deliver slower speeds until the internet service provider gets it working again.
Remember, the effectiveness of a bonded router can depend on various factors, including the quality and speed of your individual internet connections, and the capabilities of the bonded router itself.
Benefits of bonded internet
Using a bonded router can provide several benefits:
1. Increased Performance
Bonding several connections together can boost bandwidth and improve internet performance. If you require fast speeds and consistent bandwidth, bonded internet could be beneficial.
2. Reduced Risk of Outages
Bonding a leased line with a microwave connection will improve your organization’s resilience when it comes to natural disasters and other physical risks.
3. Enhanced Connectivity
Bonded routers combine multiple broadband services to provide a robust and reliable internet connection. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and those in remote or rural areas.
4. Improved Productivity
By combining the power of several links, users can boost download and upload speeds and increase their productivity.
5. Versatility
Virtually all types of internet connections can either be bonded together, load balanced between or failed over to. These technologies include Ethernet services, ADSL, Fibre, 4G/5G, Microwave internet (a.k.a., fixed wireless links), FTTP, FTTC, satellite etc.