Your Introductory Guide to Wireless Broadband

There are several types of wireless Internet service available — connections that access the Internet through radio signals instead of cables. These connections offer a great deal of mobility and convenience compared to DSL or cable connections. You’ll have fewer cables cluttering your workspace and you sign on to the Internet from anywhere within the wireless broadband signal range – in most cases every room in your house or office, even on your deck or patio! Laptop users can also take advantage of wireless connections at coffee shops, restaurants, and airports.Here’s a rundown of the different types of wireless broadband connections available today.

Fixed Wireless Broadband Connections

Fixed wireless broadband connections are a good choice if you live or work in areas that don’t have extensive access to DSL or cable, and offer speeds from 1 to 10 Mbps. These connections differ from satellite Internet or Wi-Fi in that they use mounted antennas, or transceivers, which have line-of-sight views to radio transmission towers to access the Internet.

For this reason some subscribers may have difficulty receiving signals if there are any obstructions to their line-of-sight; also, inclement weather can affect signal quality. But generally, fixed wireless broadband connections work well for Internet access, digital phones, and online games.

Wi-Fi Network Connections

Easily one of the most popular forms of Internet access today if you have wireless capabilities on your laptop computer, Wi-Fi network connections let you access the Internet from anywhere on the globe without cables or wires. All you need is a wireless network card with 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g technology in your laptop computer, then you can access your home Wi-Fi network or public Wi-Fi hotspots in such locations as coffee shops, restaurants, and airports.

Satellite Internet Connections

Satellite Internet connections are also most viable in communities which don’t offers other forms of Internet access. The technology lets users access the Internet by receiving signals from satellites orbiting the earth.

To use a satellite connection, you’ll need to install a satellite modem and small dish antenna at your home or office and sign up for a subscription plan from a satellite Internet provider. Be aware, however, that this type of connection can suffer delays and only offers slower speeds and less bandwidth.

Cellular Internet Connections

As any cell phone or PDA user can tell you, cell phones have become a great way to surf the Web. All you need is a subscription to your cell phone provider’s Internet service – these plans are in addition to cell phone service contracts – and you’ll be talking on the phone or enjoying the Internet from home or anywhere you travel.