help and support
Whether you choose a dongle, mobile WiFi device, laptop or tablet, we’ve got all the help you need to get started right here. You’ll find quick start guides and user manuals, plus software downloads for the most up-to-date version of your software, so you can enjoy a better performance.
-
find out more
open:what is mobile broadband?
How does mobile broadband work?
Mobile Broadband gives you access to the internet from a laptop using the Orange network. Mobile Broadband requires a dedicated SIM card, which you insert into a Dongle ( a kind of modem ), and plug into a computer to get online. You can also use Mobile Broadband via a specially designed "embedded" laptop or via a Mobile WiFi device (which is just like your home wireless router, but pocket-sized). When you connect an Orange Dongle for the first time, it installs the Orange connection manager, which is the programme that connects you to the internet.
what is a tablet?
A tablet is a new type of portable computer that uses a touchscreen and finger gesture as its main method of input rather than a mouse or stylus. Tablets have been designed to perform things like web browsing, email, music, video, reading books, games and running application a lot faster and better than a mobile phone or laptop. Unlike laptops, tablets are not equipped with a physical keyboard, instead relying on a virtual keyoard that can change depending on what applications you are using.
what is a dongle?
A dongle is the name for the USB device that allows you to connect to mobile broadband. You might also hear it called a USB modem or USB stick.
what is a mobile WiFi device?
Orange mobile WiFi is just like your home wireless router, but pocket-sized. It can connect any WiFi device to the internet when you're out and about, lets you access email, connect with friends when you're on the move and catch up with the latest information anywhere. So if you want to connect your iPad, iPod or Nintendo DS to the internet, a mobile WiFi device is all you need.
what is a Hotspot?
A hotspot is a place where you can connect to the internet via WiFi. This could be in Starbucks or at an airport for example.
how can I find a BT Openzone hotspot?
Use our handy WiFi hotspot finder to find a hotspot near you.
Public WiFi
You can access the internet when you're out and about via WiFi through BT Openzone hotspots. When you sign up to Dolphin Mobile Broadband 20 we'll give a password so you can login. To find out more, go to our Mobile Broadband Help & Support section on www.orange.co.uk
what does WiFi handover mean?
WiFi handover means your dongle or mobile WiFi device will automatically try to access a WiFi connection you have access to before it connects to our 3G network. This will save your allowance for when you really need it. So, for example when you're at home you could connect to your home broadband through WiFi. You can choose which WiFi connnections you want to use. This is availble on the Orange Huawei E1752 dongle and the Samsung N150 netbook.
-
find out more
open:how do I sign up?
Do I have to wait for mobile broadband to be set up, or provisioned, like I do with fixed broadband?
As soon as you receive your mobile broadband device , just give us a call on 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone and you'll be connected within 24 hours. It's not like fixed broadband, which can take between 7 and 10 working days to get you connected. If you do have any questions about setting up mobile broadband using your dongle, mobile WiFi device or laptop, just call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
What details do I need to sign up?
All you'll need are your bank details.
When will I receive my mobile broadband device from Orange?
If you've ordered online or over the phone, you'll receive your device in 3 to 5 working days. If you buy from one of our stores, you won't have to wait at all, as long as both the device is in stock.
Do I need to pass a credit check?
Yes. Mobile broadband is a pay monthly service, so we do a standard credit check for all orders.
-
find out more
open:how much does it cost?
What will I see on my bill?
Data that you use with your monthly inclusive allowance will not be listed on your bill. If you use more than this amount of data in any month, the charges will be itemised separately on your bill. If you have any questions about your bill, call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100 150 from any phone for more help.
Can I use mobile broadband on pay as you go?
Not at the moment, but keep checking our website as we are frequently updating our services.
Do I have to pay by Direct Debit?
No. You can choose to pay by cheque or credit card every month, subject to a fee. You can also pay by debit card or in an Orange shop, without paying an additional fee. We recommend paying by Direct Debit, as it's more convenient and gives you better value.
I already have an Orange pay monthly phone, so will I now receive one or two bills?
You'll receive one bill for all your Orange services.
What are the costs if I go out of bundle, or beyond my inclusive monthly allowance?
Please click here for pricing information.
Can I change to another mobile broadband plan?
You can only change your monthly plan at the end of your contract period. If you are regularly using more than your inclusive monthly allowance of data, you can add an extra bundle. Click here for more details.
Can data usage be capped?
No. If you transfer data after you have used your monthly inclusive allowance you will be charged at the out of bundle rate. Please click here for pricing information.
If I don't use my allowance, does it roll over to the next month?
No. Your data allowance is reset after each month.
Is there a disconnection fee if I end my contract before it expires?
Standard pay monthly contract rules apply, so you would have to pay for the remaining months of your contract.
What does 'out of bundle' mean?
Orange mobile broadband gives you an inclusive amount of data per month e.g. 3GB. If you use more than this amount of data in any one month (billing period), then you will be charged an 'out-of-bundle' rate for the additional data you transfer. Please click here for pricing information.
-
find out more
open:what is a GB?
How do I work out how many GBs I need?
A Gigabyte is a unit of data. The amount of data (or usage allowance) you need with your mobile broadband plan depends on whether you occasionally surf the internet, or regularly download music. That's why we provide a range of plans plus the option to add extra data so you can enjoy the monthly usage allowance that's right for you.
To read our full 'What is a GB?' guide and to work out how much data you need, here.
Orange mobile broadband gives you an inclusive amount of data per month, for example 1GB. If you use more than this amount of data in any one month (billing period) then you will be charged an 'out-of-bundle' rate for the additional data you transfer. Please click here for pricing information.
-
find out more
open:using mobile broadband
How do I set up my Orange mobile broadband connection?
You can use a Dongle, a laptop or a mobile WiFi device with Orange mobile broadband. It takes just a few simple steps to get online.
with a dongle- insert the SIM card supplied into your dongle
- plug your dongle into your laptop USB port
- follow the on-screen guide on how to get started.
- if your laptop comes with a dongle, follow the steps above to connect
- if your laptop has built-in mobile broadband, just remove the laptop battery, insert the SIM card supplied into the slot, put the battery back in, switch on your computer and follow the on-screen guide on how to get started
- insert the SIM card supplied into the slot underneath the battery of the mobile WiFi device
- follow the steps in the quick-start guide supplied with your device
- connect to your Orange mobile WiFi in the same way you would connect to your home wireless router
For full installation instructions, please see the user guide that comes in the box or view the user guides here.
What is Quiet time ?
This is a Bonus data allowance to use mornings and early afternoons, available on our mobile broadband 12-month Dolphin plans.
This Quiet Time allowance can be used from midnight until 4pm (UK time) and will be visible via Your Account and Your Orange (although not your Bill).
Can I use my phone's SIM in my Orange mobile broadband device?
No. Your Orange mobile broadband SIM is set up differently in our network to ensure you receive the best possible mobile broadband speed.
Can I exchange my fixed broadband service for mobile broadband?
You can simply choose not to renew your fixed broadband contract, and purchase Orange mobile broadband instead. Be aware that if you're currently within your fixed broadband contract period, charges are likely to apply if you cancel. You may also like to keep an eye out for our great offers giving you both fixed and mobile broadband, so that you can stay connected whether you're at home or out and about.
How can I monitor my mobile broadband usage?
Our mobile broadband connection manager has a number of options for monitoring your usage. You can download the latest version for use with any of our devices by clicking here.
- By clicking the 'Usage' button you will be shown a summary of the amount of data that you've transferred. This will help you know when you have used up your monthly inclusive allowance of data, and when you will be charged at the out-of-bundle rate. You can reset this summary data whenever you like, but we suggest you do so on your bill date.
- By clicking the 'Usage' button and then choosing the 'Usage limits' tab, you'll be able to configure alerts that will warn you about the amount of data you are transferring. We suggest you set up a usage limit equal to your monthly inclusive allowance, so that you will know when you are about to be charged at the out-of-bundle rate.
What notice do I have to give to cancel a 1-month rolling contract?
You need to call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone to cancel your 1-month rolling contract. Once you've let us know that you'd like to cancel your contract, it will be terminated 30 days later.
Can I change my Orange mobile broadband device for a newer one?
You can choose a new mobile broadband device when you renew your mobile broadband contract.
Can I use my dongle or my mobile WiFi device in more than one computer?
Yes. The dongle is a plug and play device: simply plug the device into another laptop or PC and it will install the software – then you're good to go.
You can connect your mobile WiFi device to up to 5 wireless devices ( in the same way you would connect to your home wireless router)
Can I use my Orange mobile broadband device in any laptop or desktop computer?
You can use your devices in most PCs, laptops and Apple Macs. Each device may vary slightly depending upon the operating system you use on your computer (e.g. Microsoft Windows).
To ensure your PC, laptop or Mac is supported, please check the specification section for that device on our Online Shop.
Will my Orange mobile broadband device work with my Mac?
All of our devices work with Mac OS X. Please click here to download the latest connection manager software.
Will my Orange mobile broadband device work with Windows 7?
All of our devices work with Windows 7. Please click here to download the latest connection manager software to ensure a better mobile broadband performance
Can I make video calls using my Orange mobile broadband device?
You can make video calls over the internet using applications such as Windows Live Messenger to talk to your friends or family. Please be aware some applications and services will use more data than others.
Do I need a home phone line?
No. With mobile broadband you only need Orange mobile coverage.
Do Orange mobile broadband devices act as an internet gateway for others to use?
With our mobile WiFi you can connect up to 5 wireless devices simultaneously: laptops, music players, portable consoles, digital cameras, tablets.
The dongle provides an internet connection for the laptop or PC that it is directly connected to.
How does this work with my existing fixed broadband?
You can use your existing fixed broadband in the same way you do today, or you can use Orange mobile broadband as a replacement.
Is it secure? Can I use it for online banking?
Yes. Mobile broadband offers the same level of security as a fixed broadband connection. However, we always recommend that you purchase anti-virus software for your computer to give you added security online.
What factors will affect the connection speed?
As mobile broadband uses the Orange mobile network, your service depends on the quality of the coverage you receive. To check the coverage in your area, use our coverage checker. At the moment, we can't give you an accurate indication of indoor coverage but if you do have any issues call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone. Or if you decide it's not for you we can offer you a full refund within 14 days of purchase.
-
find out more
open:how good is the coverage?
Can I really use this anywhere - where I live, work and travel?
You can use your dongle anywhere you have Orange network coverage. To check the coverage in your area, use our coverage checker. At the moment, we can't give you an accurate indication of indoor coverage but if you do have any issues call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone. Or if you decide it's not for you we can offer you a full refund within 14 days of purchase.
Does this work on Eurostar?
Yes. But your mobile broadband device won't work while you're inside the channel tunnel because it needs network coverage. You will also need to enable roaming for your device to work while you're abroad. To enable roaming before you go abroad, call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
Can I return my mobile broadband device if I have poor coverage?
Yes. If you bought your device less than two weeks ago and you have proof of purchase, you can return it to the point of purchase.
Will Orange mobile broadband work where I live?
As mobile broadband uses the Orange mobile network, your service is dependent on the quality of the coverage you receive. To check the coverage in your area use our coverage checker. At the moment, we can't give you an accurate indication of indoor coverage but if you do have any issues call 150 from your Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone. Or if you decide it's not for you we can offer you a full refund within 14 days of purchase.
-
find out more
open:can I use it abroad?
Can I use my Orange mobile broadband device overseas?
Yes. But you will need to enable your device before going abroad by calling 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone. Please be aware that any usage abroad will not be deducted from your domestic data bundle: you will be charged at a different rate. For our best overseas rates, we recommend you sign up for one of our roaming bundles.
How do I enable roaming for my Orange mobile broadband device?
Please call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
-
find out more
open:i'm still having problems
My computer doesn't seem to be recognising the mobile broadband dongle. What should I do?
Please call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
Something went wrong when I tried to install the mobile broadband dongle. What should I do?
Please call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
I can't use mobile broadband while I'm abroad.
Please call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
Which number should I ring if I'm having trouble with my mobile broadband dongle or the laptop I purchased from Orange?
Please call 150 from an Orange mobile or 07973 100150 from any phone.
-
find out more
open:technical terms
How is mobile broadband different from Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows PCs, laptops and other devices to connect to a network, and usually the internet. It's useful within a building such as your home, or a cafe. Mobile broadband uses the Orange mobile network to give you an internet connection, which means you can stay connected anywhere you have Orange coverage.
What is a dongle?
A dongle is the name for the USB device that allows you to connect to mobile broadband. You might also hear it called a USB modem or USB stick.
what is a mobile WiFi device?
Orange mobile WiFi is just like your home wireless router, but pocket-sized. It can connect any WiFi device to the internet when you're out and about, lets you access email, connect with friends when you're on the move and catch up with the latest information anywhere.
What is a GB?
GB stands for gigabyte, which is a unit of data. In 1GB there are 1024MBs. You can find out more by clicking here.
What is 3G?
3G refers to the third generation mobile network.
What is HSDPA?
High Speed Downlink Packet Access. HSDPA comes in a number of different speeds e.g. 1.8, 3.6 and 7.2Mbps. In the near future it will also be possible to reach 14.4Mbps and beyond.
What is HSUPA?
High Speed Uplink Packet Access. As well as downloading data from the internet, you may need to upload data (such as pictures) on to a social networking site. HSUPA enables you to do this very quickly via the 3G network.
What is 3G+?
3G+ is what we call HSDPA and HSUPA, mobile broadband network standards that deliver faster download speeds, perfect if you download images, videos or music occasionally, surf the Web or are downloading other large files.
What is GPRS?
General Packet Radio Services. It's a wireless communication service that helps with continuous connection to the Internet for mobile phone and computer users.
What is EDGE?
Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution. It provides data transfer rates significantly faster than GPRS and offers the best that can be achieved with a 2.5G network.
-
find out more
open:contact us
If you haven't found the answer to your question on this Help section, or need technical support, contact us on 07973 100 150. If you're an existing Orange mobile customer, you can contact us by dialling 150 from your Orange phone.
You can also click here, for additional information on setting up your service, get help with your account and safety and security.
connection manager
Download the latest connection manager for your dongle to get optimal broadband performance.
-
Windows® XP, Vista or 7
v2.0 (June 2011): for Huawei E1752, E173, E367 V1.1.5 (June 10): for Samsung N150 v1.0.11 (Nov 09): for Option 515m v1.0 (July 09): for Huawei E160 & ICON 225
-
Macintosh
v2.0 (June 2011): for Huawei E1752, E173, E367 v1.0.8 (Nov 09): for Option 515m Compatible with Mac 10.6/10.5/10.4 v1.0.7 (July 09): for Huawei E160 & ICON 225 Compatible with Mac 10.5/10.4
dongle and mobile WiFi
Our quick start guides include additional technical specifications for your dongle and mobile WiFi.
-
Option 515m dongle
quick start guide
-
Orange E1752 dongle
quick start guide
-
ICON225 dongle
quick start guide
-
E160 dongle
quick start guide
-
Novtel Wireless 3352 WiFi
quick start guide
laptops
Our quick start guides include additional technical specifications for your laptop.
-
Compaq CQ61
quick start guide
-
Asus 1005HGO
quick start guide
-
Asus 901 Eee PC
quick start guide
-
Toshiba L300
quick start guide
-
HP Compaq Mini 700
quick start guide
-
Samsung N150
quick start guide
tablets
Our quick start guides include additional technical specifications for your tablet.
-
Samsung Galaxy Tab
quick start guide
NB: the usage from downloading the software will be taken from your monthly usage allowance (but don't worry, it'll be quite small).
-
mobile broadband coverage checker
See our network coverage across the UK.
post code checker -
want to surf on the move?
get a £5 monthly discount if you're already an Orange customer
see mobile WiFi plans -
have a laptop?
just choose a plan and get £5 off if you're already with Orange
see dongle plans
