Troubleshooting Slow Connection and Hotspot Issues on T-Mobile Internet

TMobile did change something fairly significant with the latest v1.00.13 firmware for the G4AR gateway. Since the update, I have been having slow speeds on my MacBook and iPhone even though I have full bars on the gateway. I run a speedtest and I barely get 1 Mbps when I notice it is slow. All I do is turn off my WiFi on either device, rerun the speedtest, and I am back to download speeds around 400+ Mbps. I also noticed that in the TLife app under Advanced Cellular Metrics, that LTE was showing no signal where as before, it showed either excellent or good. So I got to doing some research and found the firmware update that explains everything. It appears TMobile has turned off LTE and has transfered to the 5G Standalone enablement which basically means they operate on a 5G network that operates independently of the existing 4G LTE infrastructure.

5G SA Enablement

5G Standalone (SA) enablement refers to the process of deploying and utilizing a 5G network that operates independently of the existing 4G LTE infrastructure. This standalone architecture includes a 5G core network, radio access network (RAN), and enhanced transport capabilities, which together support network slicing and edge computing, enabling tailored services for specific use cases.45

Operators are increasingly focusing on standalone 5G networks due to their potential to deliver improved latency, network slicing, and IoT capabilities, which are crucial for enterprise services and creating new revenue streams.4 However, the transition to standalone 5G requires significant investment in OSS/BSS (Operations Support Systems and Business Support Systems) to ensure service performance visibility and adherence to service level agreements (SLAs).4

Service providers like Deutsche Telekom offer 5G SA Roaming Enablement services that provide secure interconnect between 5G networks, ensuring end-to-end confidentiality and integrity for roaming messages.2 These services are designed to support business needs by enhancing security while reducing cost and complexity.2

Despite the benefits, standalone 5G deployment faces challenges such as the need for extensive mid-band coverage and densification, which can be time-consuming and costly.5 Additionally, some users, particularly in Canada, have reported difficulties in accessing standalone 5G services from providers like Bell, highlighting the ongoing transition and implementation challenges.3

In summary, 5G standalone enablement is a critical step towards realizing the full potential of 5G technology, offering enhanced capabilities and services, but it requires substantial investment and careful planning to overcome deployment challenges.456+1

https://wholesale.telekom.com/global-connectivity/our-solutions/mobile-roaming/5g-sa-roaming-enablement