Wireless Broadband Options

As with all other Internet services, wireless broadband requires the use of a modem, which you will need to purchase from your service provider. Most companies use proprietary modems so if you switch from one provider to another, you'll most likely need to purchase a new modem. Wireless broadband modems are quite small and connect to a USB port on your computer. The cost of the modem varies, but typical models sell for around $100. Some companies offer rebates if you sign up for long-term service.

The monthly service fee for wireless broadband is around $60 per month at the time of publication. This rate requires you to sign a two-year service contract with the company. Most providers also limit the amount of data you can download. The typical limit is 5 GB, with a per-megabit charge for any usage exceeding this amount. The charge per megabit ranges from $0.05 to $0.50 depending on the provider. It is important to keep these costs in mind when shopping for service as they can add up rather quickly. Consider downloading a program to track your usage so you can avoid expensive overages.

Most people hear endless commercials on television and the radio about the newer, faster 4G networks for cell phones. Both 3G and 4G are types of cellular networks. The newer of the two, 4G uses a higher frequency and offers data rates that are 10 times higher than 3G data rates. Some networks give users the option of selecting 3G or 4G services when they subscribe. The modems may be different for each type of service, so make sure you're purchasing the right modem for your service. Typically you'll pay a higher monthly service fee for 4G service.

Upload and download speeds for wireless broadband depends on the provider's speeds, the user's location and competing network traffic. Typical speeds are slower than cable broadband and DSL services, so you'll want to decide if speed or portability is more important to you before you select your Internet service provider. Download speeds for 3G users within the 3G coverage area run between 600 Kbps and 1.4 Mbps, while DSL and broadband offer download speeds as high as 6 Mbps.