Wireless Broadband Explained

To access the Internet from a home network you need a modem to receive the Internet signal, a wireless router to broadcast the signal wirelessly and a wireless network card installed in the computer to receive the signal. Wi-Fi hot spots available in many public places these days provide the modem and router, so the only thing the user needs is a wireless network card. Wireless broadband mimics this model in that the only piece of equipment needed is on the computer side. A wireless modem, which connects to your computer via a USB port, must be purchased in order to receive wireless broadband service.

Typical wireless networks have a range of a few hundred feet at best. This means that any computers wanting to pick up a signal from the network needs to be within about a 300-foot radius of the router. Wireless broadband usually transmits through cell phone networks, so you can receive coverage anywhere that cell phone carrier provides coverage. Using wireless broadband, you will be able to access the Internet nearly anywhere.

Wireless broadband service fees cost an average of $60 per month, as of the time of publication. This is quite a bit higher than normal broadband service, which averages $45 per month. Some providers provide free modems or rebates as an added incentive, but those that do not charge between $30 and $100 for the wireless modem. Many wireless broadband carriers also impose data limits. Users who go over this limit are charged a fee per megabyte. For people who use their wireless broadband connection frequently, this could raise the monthly cost significantly. Another cost factor to consider is early termination fees. Most providers require a two-year contract and if a user wishes to end his service early, the carrier charges an early termination charge of around $200.

Wireless broadband speeds are slower than broadband service. Just how much slower depends on the carrier and current usage. This could severely hinder your performance if you are attempting to access the Internet during a high-usage period. Weather issues and interference from other wireless devices can also affect the speed and reliability of wireless broadband.