Free Internet Access
With the ever growing mobility of internet use devices such as electronic tablets, notebook computers, laptops and smart phones, there is also a constant demand for wireless internet service. There are almost as many ways to find and use wireless internet access as there are devices that are in need of access.
Basically wireless internet access is where a web based device connects to the world wide web without use of a cable or phone line. Wi-Fi or Wireless Internet Finder spots are located in businesses such as libraries, eateries, hotels and sometimes even in public parks. Most businesses that offer wireless internet services will advertise this amenity for their guests’ convenience.
If you are looking for wireless internet service in your home or business then there are two main wireless internet providers in the United States is AT& T. Most cell phone providers carry the option of wireless mobile internet.
Another option for fixed home wireless internet service is Clearwire. They also offer mobile internet services in most of the major cities in the United States. Light Squared is a new company that is still in development but set to begin offering 4G LTE wireless service across the United States at some point in 2012.
There is also the option of prepaid wireless internet providers through smaller companies such as MetroPCS LEAP and Cricket. These are mainly discount mobile carriers designed for minimal access and lower data useage.
There is a relatively new type of wireless internet service that is on the rise and that is the WISP or wireless internet service provider. This type of service is typically operated in a region or location by providers who have one or more communication towers and transmit internet signals in a way that is similar to cell phone towers. These WISP providers are gaining popularity in areas where cable and digital service lines are not easily accessed or available.
As of late-2011, the only WISP that is in operation nationwide is Clearwire. They operate in 110 markets. Clearwire Internet provides speeds that can compete with digital service lines and fiber optic cable services, plus you get 4G mobile broadband access anywhere with their coverage area. They also have triple play bundles of home, mobile & phone line service. If you are looking for local WISPs by state or county, the best database for that is the global directory located at the WISP Directory that can be found online.
With new technology rolling out every day, it’s hard for consumers to know if they are getting the latest and greatest in wireless internet access. Some of the most recent advances in the wireless internet world have been the launch of the 4G services WiMAX and LTE. Both technologies deliver a truly wireless experience that allows users to access broadband internet speeds across entire cities and beyond.
It is important to know what the different types of wireless service are so that you can be sure you are using the one that is right for you.
The newest player in wireless internet is “WiMAX”- it is a wireless internet service that allows users to get broadband speeds on-the-go, for a variety of wireless devices with coverage areas encompassing entire cities.
The WiMAX network was launched by Clearwire, but is available through providers including CLEAR and Sprint. ? Most providers claim on-the-go speeds are equivalent to broadband or cable internet and are, on average, at least 4x faster than 3G.
What is LTE? A type of 4G mobile Internet that delivers broadband speeds to wireless-ready devices like laptops, smartphones and gaming consoles. LTE is being offered by T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T, among others. Like WiMAX, LTE delivers broadband speeds on the go. However, LTE overall should be significantly faster than WiMAX, with download speeds topping out around 100 Mbps.
What is 4G? Fourth-generation mobile internet that allows users to connect at significantly faster speeds than 3G service on their laptops, smartphones and other wireless devices. Most of the leading wireless providers offer some type of 4G services, whether it’s in the form of 4G Internet on a cell phone or a 4G USB modem and 4G service providers claim the service delivers speeds that are 4 times faster than 3G
What is 3G? This is third-generation mobile wireless internet is mainly offered by cell phone providers to deliver wireless access to a variety of cellular devices. Speeds are slower than that found with WiMAX, LTE and 4G – but 3G can be more affordable. 3G delivers sufficient speeds for basic Internet surfing but can lag when it comes to streaming videos and online gaming.
Depending on what you will be using wireless internet for and where you will use it can determine what type of connection you use and where you find that connection. If you are on the go but don’t want to pay a regular monthly fee for wireless service, then it is well recommended that you learn to find “hot spots” or all the different businesses that offer wireless service.
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