Locating Wireless Internet Service Providers

Selecting Wireless Internet Service Providers can be confusing because so many variations and applications are associated with the term wireless. The technology has matured quite a bit since its inception, and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to access the internet. The chart below will help you find exactly what you are looking for. Click on your area of interest and we will address your specific needs and questions as it pertains to wireless internet service.

Identifying Wireless Solutions

Anyone who is able to receive a cell phone signal can get internet access with a wireless card. For specific internet providers, please click on any of the options above. Making the right choice in wireless internet starts with sorting through the terminology and technology offerings. In order to have a better understanding of each application of wireless internet service, we have outlined below the basics of each variation.

Wireless Internet Access On Your Laptop

One of the greatest benefits of wireless internet service is the ability to take your laptop computer anywhere and enjoy broadband access on-the-go. Just like your home internet requires a broadband subscription and a modem to access internet service, your laptop may require a wireless card in order to receive broadband signals on-the-go. Learn what your options are from various mobile broadband providers like Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile or Nextel.

Wireless Router For Your Home Network

A WiFi home network is a seamless and simple way of sharing broadband access, files, printers, and more on multiple computers at home or in the office. You can move your laptop anywhere in your home, or outside near your house, and still enjoy a strong connection. You will need a broadband subscription, a router, and a wireless network adapter in order to set up your home network. Most newer model computers already come equipped with built-in wireless networking capability.

Many internet providers offer a free wireless router when you sign up for an internet subscription. However, if your provider doesn't supply this equipment, affordably-priced routers and other equipment can be purchased from Best Buy or other electronic stores.

Satellite Internet Service

There are some areas that do not have access to DSL, Cable, or wireless internet service. While in the past satellite internet was considered too expensive for most people. As prices become more affordable, and government initiatives are offered to disenfranchised citizens who don't have other viable options, it is quickly becoming a valuable alternative for high speed internet access. The beauty of satellite is it works practically anywhere. Besides a modem and a satellite internet subscription, the only other equipment is a satellite dish. Providers offer various ways of getting a dish, including rental, purchase, or third-party options. For a 2-year commitment, satellite providers like HughesNet and WildBlue provide monthly subscription that includes free installation and other benefits.

Find Pricing and Service for Satellite Providers

Wireless Access at Hotspots

Accessing a WiFi hotspot begins with a wireless-enabled mobile device, like your laptop, iPhone or notebook. These devices come equipped with an internal wireless adapter, or an external adapter that can be plugged into the device's USB port or PC card slot. You may have to install drivers that enable the device to search for and connect with available WiFi networks. When your mobile device is turned on in the vicinity of a hotspot, it will be able to detect it. Some ISPs include free WiFi hotspot access at their available hotspots throughout the nation as an added benefit when you sign up for DSL or cable internet service. For instance, AT&T has an extensive WiFi hotspot network with more than 20,000 hotspots nationwide. All you need to do is log in to your AT&T account to access the free internet.

How Wireless Internet Works

Wireless internet technology is remarkably similar to how a radio signal is transmitted over the airwaves. Wireless internet providers set up a series of towers in a region in order to transmit these radio waves. Each tower is it's own local area network, and the towers are placed close enough together so that the signals overlap. This makes mobile access seamless and reliable as you travel about the coverage area. Your wireless modem detects these signals in your coverage area in order to bring you broadband access on-the-go.

Also referred to as mobile broadband, this technology has developed over the course of 4 generations. You may be familiar with the terminology - 3G and 4G. A 3G network facilitates service through internet-enabled cell phones and other compatible devices. You can expect decent download speeds up to 2 Mbps, which supports web browsing, media streaming, and video conferencing.

The newest generation, 4G technology, includes WiMAX and other related technologies. The difference between 3G and 4G is that while 3G is a series of LANs strung together in a coverage area, 4G actually creates one giant hotspot in a coverage area. As 4G technology matures, this will likely be a great way to get cheap internet access to areas that in the past were not considered cost-effective to cover.

Finally, you will need a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card, which is a removable memory chip that stores all of your subscription information. This technology allows you to use the SIM card in various mobile devices, enabling internet access with any device.

To learn more about the differences between 3G and 4G technologies, click here.

Getting connected through wireless internet providers on your mobile device begins with access to high speed internet. Be sure to check out the special offers page to compare plans and pricing.

Understanding the differences between a home wireless network and truly mobile broadband might seem difficult to grasp if you aren't a technical person, but you can think of a home WiFi network as simply an extension of your existing wireline connection from DSL or cable internet service providers. In other words, you can connect wirelessly throughout your entire home through any device, and in most cases in your yard as well.

True mobile broadband relies on airwave signals rather than a wired connection, and can go anywhere that your wireless-enabled device can pick up a strong enough signal. The wireless internet providers in my area are working tirelessly to improve the technology, enabling you to avoid dropped connections and experience broadband on-the-go.