The short answer
If I only needed more total capacity for many users, I would load balance across two or more 5G connections. If I needed one fast, resilient connection for a single stream or VPN, I would use proper bonding, which needs a bonding server or service at the other end.
The problem
Load balancing and bonding get used as if they mean the same thing. They do not, and buying the wrong one is an expensive mistake.
Load balancing spreads separate sessions across connections. Bonding splits a single session across them and joins it back together elsewhere.
Here is what I would do
- Work out the traffic Lots of users browsing suits load balancing. One live video feed or one VPN tunnel needs bonding to go faster than a single link.
- Use different networks Combining connections on the same mast adds less than you hope. Mix networks for capacity and resilience.
- Choose the right box Multi-SIM routers handle load balancing on their own. Bonding needs a router that supports it plus a bonding server or managed service.
- Antennas for every modem Each modem needs its own good signal, so plan antenna placement for all of them.
- Test under real load Test with the actual stream, upload or VPN you will be running, not a browser speed test.
The kit I would use
- RouterMulti-modem 5G router
With load balancing, or bonding support where needed.
- ServiceBonding server or managed bonded service
Only required for true bonding.
- SIMsSIMs on two or more networks
For both capacity and resilience.
DrayTek Vigor 2862LN Quad-WAN ADSL2+/VDSL2 Wi-Fi Router with Embedded 4G / SIM SlotPrice on requestIn stock
TP-Link TL-R470T+Load Balancing Broadband RouterPrice on requestIn stockWhat I would avoid
- Expecting load balancing to speed up a single download or stream.
- Bonding two SIMs on the same network and mast.
Not quite your job?
Every site is a little different. Tell us where it is, what needs connecting and what has already been tried, and we will tell you what we would do. Get in touch.
Questions people ask
Will load balancing make a single download faster?
No. A single session uses a single link. Bonding is what lets one session use several links at once.
Do I need a server for bonding?
Yes. Bonded traffic is split at your end and reassembled at a bonding server or provider before reaching the internet.
Is bonding worth it for an office?
Usually only when a single fast connection really matters, such as live streaming or a busy VPN. For general office use, failover plus load balancing is often enough.