Can You Connect an AirCard Directly to PS3? No — Working Solutions Instead

No. The PS3 cannot use a USB mobile broadband modem (AirCard) directly.

Why It Fails

• No driver support: PS3 OS (CellOS) lacks drivers for Qualcomm/Huawei/ZTE modems.
• USB stack limited: Only supports HID (keyboards/mice), storage, EyeToy, specific headsets.
• No PPP/Dialer: No interface to authenticate APN, dial #777, manage connection.

Working Solutions

1. Mobile Hotspot (Best)

• Use phone hotspot or dedicated MiFi (Verizon Jetpack, Netgear Nighthawk).
• PS3 connects via Wi-Fi (WPA2). Stable, shared, portable.

2. Travel Router + AirCard

• Router: GL.iNet GL-AR750S (Slate), TP-Link TL-WR902AC.
• Plug AirCard into router USB → router broadcasts Wi-Fi → PS3 connects.
• Router handles dialing, NAT, DHCP. Cost: $40–80.

3. Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) via PC

• PC with AirCard → enable ICS → Ethernet to PS3 (or Wi-Fi hotspot from PC).
• Windows: Network Connections → AirCard Properties → Sharing → "Allow other users."
• Latency higher; PC must stay on.

4. Ethernet (If Available)

• Wired DSL/Cable/Fiber → router → PS3 Ethernet. Best latency/stability.

PS3 Network Notes

• PSN still works (store, downloads, some game servers).
• Wi-Fi is 802.11b/g (2.4GHz only). No 5GHz.
• MTU 1473 often helps connectivity.

Don't plug AirCard into PS3. Use a hotspot or travel router.