Mobile broadband gives you access outdoors.
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A wireless Internet connection offers the advantage of accessing the Internet without being tethered to the wall. Use your laptop anywhere without worrying if your Internet wire will reach. Because many of the companies that offer wireless Internet access are also cell phone companies, it raises the question of whether you must also have a cell phone plan to use the Internet.
Cell Phone Company Mobile Broadband
If you need broadband Internet access that you can use both at home and while you are away, such as vacations or business travel, a mobile broadband connection is an option. Many of the companies that offer this service are also cell phone companies. However, you do not need to have a cell phone plan with the company to use their mobile broadband. Instead, many of the companies allow you to purchase a special device for your computer that allows you to receive their mobile broadband Internet service.
Other Companies
As mobile wireless broadband Internet access grows in demand, more companies begin to offer the service to customers. While this type of Internet access began with cell phone companies, other companies, such as Clear and LightSquared, offer this type of Internet access without offering cell phones. With these plans, you also are not required to purchase a separate cell phone plan. The mobile broadband plan operates independently. The mobile broadband plans between cell phone companies and companies that specialize in wireless Internet access are typically comparable.
Wi-Fi Connections
Some business, such as restaurants and hotels, and other locations offer Wi-Fi access to customers. Depending on the business, you may be able to use these services for free. Some businesses may charge a small fee for the use of their Wi-Fi connection. Those places that allow you to use the Wi-Fi access for free typically require that you be a customer. To ensure that only customers are using the Internet connection, users must request a user name and password from an employee. Using a Wi-Fi connection does not require a cell phone plan, even if the connection is sponsored by a cell phone company.
Home Network
Those who only need a broadband wireless connection while they are at home can create a wireless connection from their broadband Internet service provider regardless of what type of provider they have. For instance, a cable Internet connection can be run through a router to relay a wireless signal throughout your home. This wireless network allows you to use the Internet anywhere within your home, but does not grant you access beyond your home.
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Photo Credits
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