Forum Discussion
T-Life advanced cellular metrics and HINT no longer showing LTE signal info.
For those noticing recent performance issues with the T-Mobile Home Internet 4GAR gateway, it is most likely due to the latest firmware v1.00.13 upgrade. With this upgrade, T-Mobile has transitioned to the 5G Standalone enablement. This is the process of deploying and utilizing a 5G network that operates independently of the existing 4G LTE infrastructure. Basically, no more LTE. I have been noticing issues since this upgrade with SLOW internet speeds, long web page loads, etc.. Even though the gateway is showing full bars, I can do a speedtest when I see these issues start and my download speed barely reaches 1Mbps. I've noticed this on my MacBook, iPhone, PC, you name it. However, when this occurs, I just turn the WiFi off on the device, turn it back on and the speedtest is back to normal with downloads reaching 400+Mbps. I thought I would share this because I have noticed an uptick in forum posts regarding these performance issues and after doing a little research, I'm pretty sure I have found the reason why. Even Bell users in Canada have been experiencing the same issues with their deployment to 5G SA.
G4AR fw v1.00.13 is interesting:
Firmware versions, fixes, and features - G4AR
1.00.13
Minor bug fixes
--> 5G standalone (SA) enablement <--
Stability improvements
1.00.12
Stability improvements
1.00.09
Updates to LCD user interface
Stability improvements
1.00.02
Stability improvements
1.00.01
Release version
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
Is there any way to turn off SA. Ever since my firmware updated I’m in standalone and my speeds have reduced by 60%. Support has been no help.
ThanksInteresting. I have an older Arcadyan KDV 21 router (1.00.24) and I've noticed the T-Life app has been reporting "No Signal" for the LTE band. It's been probably 3 months since I last checked, but using the old TMI App, it always had signals for both 5G and LTE. Performance wise, I'm not really seeing an impact as best as I can tell. So I'm guessing, like you say, the hybrid LTE/5G technology is being phased out.
