WIRELESS HIGH SPEED INTERNET SERVICE
OVERVIEW
While most people might think of the public wireless "hotspot" at their local coffee shop or airport as "wireless internet service", true wireless internet services a wide coverage area in a dedicated private frequency range - similar to how cellular phone networks operate. Also like cellular service, you can be anywhere within that coverage area in order to receive this type of service.
PERFORMANCE
Wireless broadband downloads
are typically from 768 Kbps (Kilobytes per second) to 1.5 MBps (Megabytes per second). Uploads are usually throttled
back by the provider to prevent customers
from running high load servers on their lines and are generally
256 Kbps.
INSTALLATION
Modern wireless internet service is very simple to install. Your wireless broadband provider's
"modem" plugs into an electrical outlet and connects to your computer using a standard Ethernet networking cable. Most newer computers can accommodate
this type of connection, but if yours cannot
an ethernet card upgrade can usually be found for less than $20.00. No software is required.
COST
Generally $30.00 to $40.00 per month.
Wireless internet providers are eager to earn new subscribers and introductory prices as low as $15.00 per month are currently available. Pricing may also depend on the length of the contract with the provider. Activation fees and equipment purchase or rental may also factor into your plan. Be sure to read the fine print and fully understand your total cost.
TIPS
Wireless internet performance
is dependent on a "clean signal"
from the broadband provider. If the signal
is weak or distorted, broadband performance
will be reduced or it simply will not work.
The signal can be weakened by local geography and the location of the wireless modem in your home or office. Again, like cellular service, dead spots can be found even within a coverage area. If your signal is weak, try moving the modem to a different location. Signal boosters or standard wireless routers and home networking can extend the service range within your home if the modem's ideal location is away from your computer. If a good location cannot be found, contact your wireless service provider for assistance.
Your wireless internet service is mobile within the providers service area, but your wireless modem must have access to an electrical outlet.
Be sure to evaluate all options
before choosing a High Speed Internet Service
Broadband Provider.
