AT&T Introduces Internet Backup for Fiber Outages

AT&T Launches Innovative Internet Backup Feature

In an effort to enhance connectivity for its customers, AT&T has introduced a new feature known as Internet Backup. This innovative solution is designed to automatically transition a home’s wired internet to a cellular connection via a nearby smartphone in the event of a disruption in fiber service. Notably, this feature is provided at no additional cost to customers who have AT&T Fiber service and an eligible AT&T unlimited postpaid wireless plan that also includes unlimited data.

How Internet Backup Works

The rollout of the Internet Backup feature is scheduled to begin next week, facilitated through a software update to AT&T’s BGW320 Wi-Fi gateways. For fiber customers utilizing different hardware, an upgrade may be necessary to access this beneficial feature.

Eligible customers will receive a notification through the AT&T Smart Home Manager app when their gateway has been successfully updated. It’s important to note that the smartphone with the eligible service must be "within reach" of the gateway for this fallback service to operate effectively.

Simple Setup Process

The app provides a step-by-step guide to enable this feature, allowing for a seamless transition to cellular data when any disruption occurs in fiber service. According to AT&T, this switch-over can take up to two minutes. Importantly, the service will revert back to fiber when connectivity is restored. Users will receive alerts on their smartphones whenever the Internet Backup is activated, ensuring they remain informed throughout the process.

Advantages Over Competitors

One significant benefit of AT&T’s Internet Backup is that it utilizes the unlimited data included in the eligible wireless plan rather than mobile hotspot data. This is a marked advantage over T-Mobile’s similar offering, which was introduced last June. T-Mobile’s Home Internet Backup plan begins at an additional $30 per month, providing 130GB of 5G data monthly, which is a stark contrast to AT&T’s complimentary service for eligible customers.

Deactivation Conditions

AT&T’s Internet Backup feature will deactivate under certain circumstances, which include:

• Cancelling AT&T fiber or cellular service
• Switching to a limited wireless plan
• Removing the AT&T Smart Home Manager app
• If the Wi-Fi gateway loses power

Conclusion

AT&T’s Internet Backup feature represents an exciting advancement in home connectivity solutions, particularly for customers who rely on AT&T Fiber service. By leveraging existing smartphone capabilities, AT&T is setting itself apart in the competitive landscape of internet providers, making sure that users remain connected even during service disruptions.