How to Compare Broadband Access Cards From Phone Companies

Step 1

Find out the total upfront cost of the card. In addition to paying for monthly service, you will need to purchase the broadband access card. Expect to pay at least $20. However, you could end up paying a few hundred, depending on the phone company.

Step 2

Check out the total cost of monthly service. This will vary depending on how often you plan to use the broadband access card to get on the Internet. For a few hours a day, you can get a limited service, which is less expensive than unlimited Internet service with a broadband access card.

Step 3

Get information about any other fees. For example, some phone companies will charge an activation fee. If you choose a limited service Internet option, then overage fees may be applied if you go over your set number of hours or megabytes.

Step 4

Ask about the terms of the service deal. Some phone companies ask that you sign a contract and commit to a certain period of time, meaning you'll have to continue paying the monthly fee for the broadband access card during that period of time.

Step 5

Pay attention to other possible features that you can get through different phone companies. Some broadband access cards have memory or the capability to have memory added to them. An antenna can also be available to enhance signal strength and Internet speed.