Purpose: Identifying an Advanced Connectivity Feature

To support your productivity wherever you work, some company laptops have a special capability for uninterrupted online access, even when a Wi-Fi network isn’t available. We run a routine check simply to identify which laptops have this built-in advantage. This helps us understand the tools you have at your disposal, ensuring you are well-equipped to perform your work effectively in any environment.

Your device’s result will indicate one of two types. “Enhanced Connectivity” means your device can maintain a secure, independent internet connection, giving you the freedom to work with confidence from more locations. A “Standard Connectivity” result is the normal configuration for most of our devices, designed for reliable performance on trusted Wi-Fi networks in the office or at home. Both types of devices are fully supported and provide the security and performance needed for your role.

This is an informational check only. It is important to understand that this check is purely for our information and requires no action from you, regardless of the outcome. Your device’s connectivity type is simply a characteristic of the hardware, not a reflection of its overall performance or security. This status will not impact your daily work in any way, nor will it affect your computer’s performance or eligibility for software upgrades, like Windows 11.

How it Works: Internet That Travels With You

Think about how you connect to the internet:

• Standard Laptops connect using Wi-Fi, which requires you to be near a wireless router at home, in the office, or at a coffee shop.
• 5G-Enabled Laptops have their own built-in cellular modem, just like a smartphone. This allows them to connect to the internet directly through the 5G cellular network, giving you a fast, secure connection even when Wi-Fi isn’t available.

Our health check simply looks to see if your computer has this built-in cellular capability.

What Your Results Mean

This check identifies whether your device has a built-in 5G modem. There is no “pass” or “fail,” only a status of its capability.

Status	What It Means	What To Do
5G Capable	Your laptop has a built-in 5G modem. You have the ability to connect to the internet over the high-speed cellular network, providing a secure connection on the go.	No action is required. This is a premium feature for enhanced mobility.
Standard Wi-Fi (Not 5G Capable)	Your laptop connects using Wi-Fi.  This is the standard configuration for the vast majority of our computers. Your device may have an older 4G modem or no cellular modem at all.	No action is required. Your computer is fully functional and will continue to work perfectly using Wi-Fi networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

My laptop isn’t 5G capable. Is it outdated or broken?

• Not at all. Built-in 5G is a relatively new, premium feature and is not standard on most laptops. Your device is a standard, fully supported work computer.

Does this mean I can’t get my work done?

• No. Wi-Fi remains the primary and recommended method for connecting to the internet in the office and at home. 5G is an alternative for those who need high-speed connectivity while traveling or in areas without trusted Wi-Fi.

Will this prevent me from upgrading to Windows 11?

• Absolutely not. This check is purely informational. Your device’s 5G status has no impact on its eligibility for Windows 11 or any other software updates.

What if I want a 5G-capable laptop?

• Our standard technology refresh cycles will gradually introduce more 5G-capable devices into our fleet. There is no need to request a special replacement at this time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the IT Help Desk.