4G often employs MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technology, requiring two or more antenna chains. A 3G dongle typically has a single, simple antenna. Even if you somehow swapped the chip, the physical radio frequency (RF) path, filters, and amplifiers would not support LTE bands (Band 3, 5, 40, 41 in India).
Before we discuss the upgrade, you must understand the sunset.
In 2020, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) allowed operators to shut down 3G networks to refarm the spectrum (the 900MHz and 2100MHz bands) for 4G and 5G. Vodafone Idea (Vi) began a phased shutdown of 3G services starting in March 2020 and completed it by mid-2022.
What this means for your Idea 3G Netsetter:
Verdict: You cannot "upgrade" the firmware or software of the 3G dongle to make it 4G. The upgrade is a physical replacement of the device and the SIM plan. idea 3g netsetter upgrade to 4g
I understand. That old MTS Netsetter with the blue glow got you through your final exams. It connected you to your first online job interview. It was the only way to watch YouTube when broadband was unavailable.
But technology moves forward. Keeping a 3G Netsetter alive today is like trying to use a dial-up modem in the age of fiber. It’s a beautiful relic, best placed on a shelf as a museum piece, not as a daily driver.
Many users delay upgrading because they have a few hundred rupees of data balance left on their Idea 3G Netsetter.
The Hard Truth: When a network shuts down 3G, your unused data on a 3G-only plan is forfeit. Vi will not refund you. However, if you do a SIM swap to a 4G SIM (Path 2 above), Vi might credit the residual balance to your new 4G account, but this is rare for old data-only dongles. 4G often employs MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output)
Your Best Bet:
Historically, operators like Reliance Communications (which owned the Netsetter brand) and MTS India (later absorbed by Reliance Jio or Aircel) offered migration schemes:
However, with the shutdown of 3G networks across India (complete by March 31, 2020, as per DoT directives), most operators have ceased 3G-specific upgrade plans. Today, you cannot buy a 4G plan and use it in a 3G Netsetter because the device will simply not register on the 4G network.
The smartphone in your pocket is a superior Netsetter. Verdict: You cannot "upgrade" the firmware or software
Pros: Zero extra cost, uses existing 4G/5G plan, better speeds than any old dongle. Cons: Drains phone battery; not a dedicated device.
Q1: Can I flash my Idea 3G Netsetter to make it 4G? A: Absolutely not. 4G requires different hardware (LTE modem, MIMO antennas). Software cannot create hardware.
Q2: Will a 4G SIM work in my old Idea 3G dongle? A: Yes, but only at 2G or 3G speeds if the network still offers those bands. Since 3G is shut down, you will get 2G (0.1 Mbps). Useless.
Q3: My Idea Netsetter shows full bars. Why no internet? A: Your dongle is showing a 2G signal for voice/SMS towers. Data services are disabled on that band for your SIM profile. The tower is telling your dongle: "I see you, but I won't serve you data."
Q4: Is Vi still selling new 4G dongles? A: As of 2025, Vi has largely exited the dongle market. They prefer you use a smartphone hotspot. You will mostly find third-party dongles (TP-Link, ZTE) that are "unlocked" or "Vi compatible."
Q5: I have an old "Idea 3G Netsetter" postpaid plan. How to upgrade? A: Visit a Vi store immediately. Postpaid 3G plans are being force-migrated. Do not assume auto-upgrade. Submit a written request to change your service from "3G Data Card" to "4G Broadband."