There are different broadband backhaul options for both 3G and 4G networks.  The mobile market has changed over the last couple of years, and profits for network providers have fallen from voice calls.  In order to combat at any revenue decline the providers need to offer a variety of voice communication plans to entice customers in order to retain a competitive edge and this strategy may strengthen money making revenue streams and profit margins.  This problem is one of the reasons why service providers need to search elsewhere to make their money; mobile broadband may provide the answer.

Some data plans are included within the customer's contract while other providers have ‘pay as you go' style usage fees for mobile broadband.  The traffic within the networks is increasing because of the amount of people now logging online from their mobile phones.  The first mobile communications systems were designed for voice calls only and therefore cannot cope with the current data overload; this is why providers have had to review and upgrade their networks in order to meet the demand for increased data volume.

Among the latest developments are fibre and microwave backhaul systems, which work well in looking after the additional data from mobile internet usage.  These backhaul systems allow faster speeds and cope much better with 4G wireless.  Speed is very important as consumers expect a decent level of service and efficiency.