In short: BT business 4G backup, called Hybrid Backup, switches your broadband automatically to the EE Business 4G network if the fixed line fails, then back once it is fixed. It is included on Enhanced, available on Pro, comes with Ultra, and can get new customers online the day after ordering. BT backs it with the Always Connected Guarantee.
What is Hybrid Backup?
Hybrid Backup is a 4G backup service for BT Business Broadband. A small backup device with a SIM, which BT calls the Hybrid Connect device, works alongside your BT Business Smart Hub. If the fixed broadband line fails, the hub switches your traffic onto the EE Business 4G network automatically. Your Wi-Fi network stays the same, so devices carry on as before.
When the fixed line is restored, traffic moves back. BT's terms say the backup is for use when the broadband has failed (and during the initial connection period described below), not as extra everyday capacity.
Which packages include 4G backup
| Package | 4G backup |
|---|---|
| Essential | Not included as standard; can be added as a paid option if your site is eligible |
| Enhanced | Hybrid Backup included |
| Pro | Hybrid Backup available |
| Ultra | 4G backup on the EE Business 4G network included |
Hybrid Backup depends on your site having adequate EE Business 4G coverage, which BT checks when you order. See the package comparison for everything else in each tier.
Online the day after you order
New connections take time: BT says activation usually takes around 14 working days, longer if full fibre needs building. With Hybrid Backup, BT can send the backup device by next-day delivery once your order is placed (orders placed by midday, Monday to Friday, subject to credit checks; weekend orders arrive on the Tuesday). BT calls this Next Day Connection: you use the 4G connection until your fixed line goes live.
That is useful for new offices, pop-up sites and premises moves where you cannot afford a gap. For leased lines, which take longer to install, 4G can also act as an interim connection. See leased line installation.
The Always Connected Guarantee
BT backs Hybrid Backup with its Always Connected Guarantee. If the backup fails to take over within 30 minutes of you reporting a fixed-line fault, you may be able to claim compensation from BT. You must report the fault in the way BT asks, you can claim once per contract term, and compensation is paid once the fixed-line fault is resolved. Ask us and we will explain how it applies to your contract.
Two points to remember:
- Power: Hybrid Backup needs electricity at your site and a working BT hub. In a power cut it will not help unless your hub and backup device are on an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
- Speed: backup speeds depend on local 4G coverage and how busy the network is. The minimum speed guarantee covers your fixed line, not speeds on backup.
Earlier names and older products
You may see older BT names for the same idea:
- 4G Assure was BT's earlier 4G backup service. BT's guarantee wording still refers to Hybrid Backup or 4G Assure.
- Hybrid Connect is the name of the 4G backup device.
- Hybrid Speed Boost is a separate add-on that uses 4G to top up speeds on ADSL (copper) lines only. It is not a backup service and BT does not guarantee any speed increase from it.
BT's current terms and product pages describe Hybrid Backup on the EE Business 4G network. If you want a different mobile backup design, ask us what fits your site.
Backup for leased lines and multi-site businesses
A dedicated line such as BTnet is designed for high availability, but many businesses still want a second path in. Common approaches are a second circuit over a diverse route, a business broadband line as backup, or mobile broadband from EE Business. Branches on business broadband can each have Hybrid Backup, which suits retail chains taking card payments.
We design resilience around how much an outage costs you. Contact us and we will check 4G coverage at your sites and recommend the right mix.
Why buy BT through Forever Communications
Forever Communications Ltd is a BT Business Partner, supplying BT Business connectivity, voice and mobile services to UK organisations. You get BT's network with a named team who knows your account.
- Impartial advice on the right BT product for each site, from Essential, Enhanced, Pro and Ultra business broadband to BTnet and BT Ethernet
- One point of contact for availability checks, orders, installations, moves, upgrades, faults and renewals
- Ready for the PSTN switch-off: digital phone lines, SoGEA, BT Cloud Voice, BT Cloud Phone and Digital Voice for Business, with your numbers kept where possible
- Multi-site and sector know-how for schools, GP surgeries, retailers, hospitality venues and growing offices
- Mobile and security too: EE Business mobiles from BT Group, Hybrid Backup on the EE Business 4G network, and BT security options alongside our wider Cyber Essentials help
We sell to businesses, schools, charities and public sector organisations. We do not sell consumer or home products.
Want a BT Business quote for your sites?
Tell Forever Communications what you need and we will come back to you by email with options, not a hard sell.
Contact usFrequently asked questions
How does BT business 4G backup work?
If your fixed broadband fails, the BT Business Smart Hub automatically switches your traffic to the EE Business 4G network using a backup device with its own SIM. When the fixed line is fixed, it switches back. Your Wi-Fi network and devices stay the same.
Does BT Hybrid Backup work in a power cut?
Not on its own. BT's terms require electrical power at your site and a working BT hub. If you need to stay online during power cuts, put the hub and backup device on a UPS.
Which BT business broadband package includes Hybrid Backup?
Hybrid Backup is included on Enhanced and is available on Pro. Ultra comes with 4G backup. It is not part of Essential as standard, though eligible sites can add it as a paid option.
What is the BT Always Connected Guarantee?
It is BT's promise behind Hybrid Backup: if the 4G backup does not take over within 30 minutes of a correctly reported fixed-line fault, you may be eligible for compensation, once per contract term, paid when the fixed-line fault is resolved.
Does BT offer 5G backup for business broadband?
BT's current terms and product pages describe Hybrid Backup on the EE Business 4G network, not 5G. If mobile backup speed matters for your site, contact us and we will check coverage and the options available.
Can I get online before my BT broadband is installed?
Yes, if your package includes Hybrid Backup. BT can send the backup device by next-day delivery so you can use the 4G connection until your fixed line is live.