Options for Wireless High Speed Internet

If you have broadband Internet access in your home, you can create your own Wi-Fi hotspot with a wireless router. Instead of connecting the modem directly to your home computer via Ethernet cable, the connection bypasses through a wireless router. This router changes your wired broadband connection into a wireless signal that can be received by any device in your home that is wireless-capable, such as a laptop or printer. If you have a printer connected to your wireless network, you are able to print documents from any computer on your network.

Some municipalities, such as Anaheim, California and Austin, Texas, offer residents wireless capablities throughtout the city. The network is open to everyone and is available on any device that is capable of receiving a wireless signal, though service can be spotty. Some cities only offer wireless access in specific areas, such as public parks, libraries and other municipal buildings that are open to the public. Florida and Oregon offer free wireless access at highway welcome centers.

Businesses such as hotels, restaurants and campgrounds often offer free wireless Internet to their customers. These connections typically require a user name and password that is assigned by the business to ensure that only customers use the service. Airports often have free wireless, which allows business people to work on the go. Some schools, especially colleges, offer wireless Internet to students and faculty. Even hospitals may offer Wi-Fi connections for patients, their families and doctors to use.

Some cell phone providers, as well as third-party providers, offer mobile wireless Internet packages. To use this service, you must connect a small antenna to your laptop through your USB port, which receives a signal through the air the same way a cell phone receives its signal. This service enables you to use the broadband Internet wherever you go, even when there are no other wireless options available.