Client devices may have internet and other services available simultaneously from a number of different networks such as wide area mobile broadband networks and local area networks such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet. In cases where a client device is receiving internet service from a local area network, the client device may still need to maintain the communication link with a wide area mobile broadband network even when not actively using its services. A method and apparatus are disclosed that enable a client device with mobile broadband connection capability and at least one local area connection capability to power off its mobile broadband modem but still be connected to mobile broadband network through the internet service which the client device may receive from the local area network. Powering off the mobile broadband modem of a client device may help reduce its power consumption.