Step 1 — Check Your Phone’s Network Support
- Go to Settings > SIM & Network → Mobile Network.
- Select your preferred network type.
- Your phone is 4G-only if all you see is 4G/LTE and not 5G/NR.
Result: You cannot “convert” your phone if it does not list 5G; instead, utilise the useful choices in Steps
Step 2 — Use 5G Internet on Your 4G Phone (Hotspot Method)
Option A: 5G Pocket Hotspot (MiFi)
- Purchase or take out a 5G mobile hotspot device.
- With a data plan activated, insert a 5G SIM card.
- Note the hotspot’s Wi-Fi name after turning it on.
- On your 4G phone, go to Wi-Fi, choose a hotspot, and then input your password.
- You may now browse using the hotspot’s 5G Wi-Fi connection on your phone.
Option B: Tether from a 5G Phone
- Wi-Fi hotspot ON may be found under Settings → Hotspot/Tethering on the 5G phone.
- Choose a secure password.
- Link your 4G phone to that hotspot just like you would with regular Wi-Fi.
Tips for pros: To improve the 5G signal, position the hotspot/5G phone close to a window. In order to prevent battery depletion, keep it charged.
Step 3 — Max Out Your 4G Speeds (LTE Advanced)
- Many 4G phones, even without 5G, enable LTE Advanced (4.5G), which is significantly faster than 4G.
- Refresh your phone: Settings → System → Update Software.
- If your carrier offers it, ask them to activate LTE Advanced/Carrier Aggregation on your connection.
- Network settings can be reset (optional): Reset => Reset network under Settings → System.
- Verify that the APN corresponds to the most recent configurations set by your carrier.
- Instead of imposing 3G/2G, choose 4G/LTE under Preferred Network Type.
- The signal quality is more important than bars when testing speed close to windows or outside.
- In decent LTE-A coverage, many users get speeds that are comparable to entry-level 5G.
Step 4 — Prepare for a Smooth Switch to Real 5G (Future-Ready)
- Obtain a 5G-capable SIM card from your provider (it is currently compatible with 4G).
- Before you upgrade, look at maps of 5G coverage in your region.
- Choose a 5G phone that supports the bands that your carrier offers (Sub-6 GHz initially, mmWave if available in your city) when you make your next purchase.
- Choose phones with Wi-Fi 6/6E for better Wi-Fi and hotspot speeds.
Step 5 — Security & Data Tips (Very Important)
- On hotspots, use secure passwords; stay away from unsecured networks.
- When using public hotspots or Wi-Fi, turn on a VPN.
- Keep an eye on how much data you use because 5G can use it rapidly for cloud backups and auto-updates.
- Update both your phone’s firmware and the hotspot’s.
Quick Myths—Busted
“My phone can get 5G through an app.” Not true; hardware is needed.
“On any phone, a 5G SIM equals instant 5G.” Yes, you also require a 5G phone.
“5G is unlocked by hidden settings.” Without a 5G modem and antennae, it is impossible.
60-Second Summary
- An actual 5G gadget cannot be made out of a 4G phone.
- 5G hotspots and tethering allow you to access 5G internet on a 4G phone.
- Boost 4G now has a strong signal, the right APN, and LTE Advanced.
- Upgrade to a 5G phone when it’s ready to get the full benefits of 5G, including peak speeds and reduced latency.