What Do You Need For Wireless Internet

What Do You Need for Wireless Internet?

Getting connected to wireless Internet service can seem confusing, but it's really quite simple. Most Internet service providers will work very hard to help you get connected. If you've purchased a laptop or desktop computer within the last five years, chances are you have most of what you need. In many cases, your Internet service provider will supply the rest.

Types

There are three basic types of wireless Internet service. One is hot spot service, which is available in specified locations. Another common type of wireless Internet is satellite service. You can also get mobile Internet access on your laptop through your cellular telephone provider.

Features

You can access hot spot Internet service at remote locations such as bookstores, coffee shops and copy centers. You can get this type of Internet connection either as a stand-alone service or as a feature of your high-speed wired Internet connection. You will need a laptop with a wireless network card in order to connect to the hot spot. Many laptops come with this card already installed. If your laptop doesn't have a wireless card, take it in to a professional for an upgrade. When you get satellite service, your Internet service provider (ISP) will put a satellite dish on the roof of your home. Your ISP will also install any modems and cables that you need. This service will connect you to a satellite that's in orbit. A cellular laptop card is required to connect to the Internet using your mobile phone service. In most cases, your provider will give you the card when you sign up for the service. In most cases, this will install in the PCMCIA card slot on the side of your laptop. This is a rectangular slot that's about 2 inches long and ½ inch tall.

Function

Most wireless services will work with your existing computer. However, if your computer is five years or older, you may want to upgrade or replace it. You must be near a mobile hot spot in order to access the Internet there. The service may be inconvenient unless you visit your local merchants, hotels and airports frequently. Also, there are many free wireless hot spots in most major cities, so paying for this service may be unnecessary. Satellite service is typically only good in your home. Cellular Internet service, on the other hand, works wherever you can get a mobile phone signal.

Benefits

Cellular Internet service is very useful if you need to access the Internet in odd locations where you ordinarily couldn't connect. Hot spot service is best if you often visit specific locations where the service is available. In some cases, if you upgrade your DSL service, you will get hot spot wireless service for free. Satellite service is best if high-speed DSL or cable Internet service isn't available in your area.

Considerations

Satellite Internet service is very expensive in comparison to other services, both wired and wireless. If your Internet access needs are light, and your area doesn't have DSL or cable service, consider getting dial-up service instead. Also, check your local library or municipal government to see if they provide free wi-fi access before indulging in expensive hot spot service. Since your provider will probably give you everything you need to connect, your main responsibility is to maintain your computer and keep it Internet-ready. Make sure that you have the most recent version of your web browser installed on your computer. Keep a firewall active at all times. Also install virus software and keep it updated.

Tags: Internet service, provider will, spot service, your computer, your Internet, your laptop