Verizon Wireless today goes national with its LTE-based broadband service.
With HomeFusion Broadband, Verizon Wireless provides each subscriber an antenna that acts as a single point of connection to its cellular network; that connects to an in-home router that can support up to four Ethernet connections and Wi-Fi connections, for up to 20 Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
HomeFusion was tested earlier this year in six markets.
Verizon is positioning HomeFusion as an access alternative for subscribers in areas with limited broadband choices. The company noted that its 4G LTE network is now available in 230 markets, covering more than two-thirds of the population in the United States.
The cylindrical antenna – actually multiple antennas arranged in a cylindrical pattern – requires professional installation; the installation is free, but the antenna is $200.
Verizon said that depending on conditions, customers should experience average data rates of 5 to 12 Mbps on the downlink and 2 to 5 Mbps on the uplink.
Service plans include $60 monthly access for 10 GB of data, $90 monthly access for 20 GB or $120 monthly access for 30 GB ($10 per GB after allowance).
