Verizon 4G Speed: I get 52 Mbps Download and 20 Mbps Upload speed using 4G Verizon LG modem. But - I agree as many users start buying 4G - speed will keep on dividing. I am having this high speed due to no user or few users in my area and being close to Verizon 4G antenna < Data speed also depends on how good 4G signal strength/ quality /signal to noise ratio Is >
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Yes software does crashes sometimes, only if your using modem for long time because it need power cycle i.e. unplug and plug back works great. I believe its Hardware (modem) issue not software issue. Any new technology get polish with time and experience. 3G is in market almost 8 to 10 years - so give some time Guys.
Lets evaluate what really 4G is:
Verizon / MetoPCS 4G LTE is best described as 3.9G (beyond 3G but pre-4G)which did not meet requirements for 4G also called IMT Advanced as defined by the International Telecommunication Union such as peak data rates up to 1 Gbit/s.
Currently - supporters of LTE have submitted new technology , upgraded version of LTE Advanced for evaluation as 4G. And, if that passes - Verizon will be making history in 4G introduction on large scale beating everyone as always for being FIRST to introduce future technologies.
Sprint (and ClearWire) WiMax is supposed to 3.7G / 3.8G - signal goes only for one mile , low penetration power but gives good speed. AT&T and T-Mobile have currently upgraded software platforms on current 3G antenna using HSPA+ technology - gives good speed. Both carriers currently have only 3G technology.
Today's marketing for 4G is completely based on Speed rate: User will move on carriers which will provide good speed. Sprint and Verizon are ahead of technology but AT&T and T-Mobile started providing good speed using 3G upgrade in order to avoid losing customers and advertising good speed as 4G technology.
If you find Verizon and Sprint 4G expensive than AT&T and T-Mobile 4G (actually 3G with upgrades) only because Verizon and Sprint are trying to get their money back invested in new technologies; makes sense from business perspective.
Support to LTE:
AT&T has confirmed to move for LTE in mid 2011 and T-Mobile in end 2011. No other carrier is supporting WiMax, so its looks like LTE is here to stay and be a FUTURE technology.
User (aka mine)perspective: whichever gives me good speed with reliable communication and cheaper bill - I want that; fuck with technology.