Cellular Wireless Internet Complements Broadband Internet Services at Home

Accessing the Internet from anywhere is even easier with wireless high speed Internet services from cellular carriers like Sprint and Verizon. Cellular-based Internet services, however, are relatively new, are slower than WiFi networks, and come at a premium cost. Instead of replacing your broadband Internet connection with ubiquitous cellular-based Internet services, you may consider supplementing an already existing WiFi broadband Internet connection through your DSL or cable Internet provider with cellular Internet.

Cellular Based Wireless Internet Services for PCs

Public WiFi broadband Internet networks, or hotspots, are not the ideal solution for frequent travelers in many ways. WiFi hotspots are relatively rare, so it can be difficult for travelers to find Internet access when they need it while in an unfamiliar city. WiFi Internet networks also require setting up logins and passwords to access the Internet, and going through this process for each individual network can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Cellular providers hope to better serve frequent travelers in need of Internet access with cellular based wireless Internet service plans. The main advantage of cellular based Internet is its accessibility. Users can connect to the network throughout the carrier’s coverage area rather than in the self-contained hotspots necessary for WiFi broadband Internet access.  Cellular based wireless Internet services also allow users to connect by simply clicking, whereas WiFi broadband networks require users to separately register for access to each hotspot. Cellular service even works in moving vehicles, such as trains and cars, enhancing the productivity of travel professionals who must work on the go.

Cellular Wireless Internet Services Benefits

Cellular broadband services provide wireless Internet access with download speeds approaching those of a WiFi Internet network, and at first glance seem like a viable alternative to WiFi broadband. However, cellular wireless Internet is best used as a supplement to an already existing broadband Internet access plan in your home. Although the benefits to investing in a cellular based wireless Internet service are myriad, there are several drawbacks to the service.

Potential Drawbacks to Cellular WiFi

WiFi broadband Internet is faster, especially for data uploads like sending e-mail, and works more consistently in buildings. Slower cellular based Internet speeds are exacerbated by the fact that some carriers, such as Verizon, use the same backbone for their Internet and cell phone subscribers, slowing down the data transfer rate overall. Cellular based wireless e-mail is also much more expensive than a standard broadband Internet access plan at $60 - $120 a month with a 2-year contract.  Many carriers also restrict bandwidth usage, or charge additional fees to download music, videos, or play games.

Because of the expense and restrictions on usage, those who travel extensively or work while traveling may find it worthwhile to invest in cellular based wireless Internet, but will probably want to stick to their cable or DSL broadband Internet services at home.