Information on Wireless Internet Types & Providers

You can access the Internet in several different ways. To get wireless Internet, you must first get Internet access through an ISP (Internet Service Provider). There are currently three ways you can get high speed internet: through your cable company, through your local DSL provider and through your local cell phone provider. Learn more about ISPs and the wireless Internet types they offer.

Cable Provider for Internet

The cable company is the most popular choice among wireless Internet providers. Practically every cable television company offers Internet packages. Many people prefer to have Internet through their cable companies because of the ease of combined billing and payment. Also, many times cable companies offer a small discount for customers who go to them for both their Internet and cable television.

Making A Cable Provider's Internet Wireless

When you get Internet service through your cable TV provider, the company will provide you with a high speed cable modem. This will allow you to connect a computer directly to the modem via Ethernet or USB. However, if you want the option to use your computer wirelessly, you must purchase your own wireless router. Wireless routers are available just about anywhere. Chances are, your local Wal-Mart has them in stock for around $40.

DSL Provider for Internet

The second most popular option for high speed internet is through DSL, or digital subscriber line. Most commonly, DSL Internet will be offered through your local phone companies. AT&T is currently the largest DSL provider. Many people choose DSL for its simplicity and easy set-up. Rather then using a cable television jack to connect to the Internet, DSL providers use a standard telephone jack.

Making a DSL Provider's Internet Wireless

When you get service through a DSL Internet provider, the company will supply you with a high speed DSL modem. This allows you to connect your computer to the modem via Ethernet and sometimes USB. Most times, DSL modems also feature a built-in wireless router. So, there is no need to purchase any additional equipment to have wireless Internet.

Cell Phone Company for Wireless

The third option for wireless Internet providers is your cell phone company. Some popular cell phone companies that currently offer wireless Internet are Verizon Wireless and AT&T Wireless. Rather then providing Internet through cable lines or phone jacks, cell phone companies use the power of cell phone signal towers to give you Internet. Many people choose their cell phone companies for Internet due the reliability and everywhere coverage. Because they use broadcast towers, you will not need to be near a router or modem to get wireless access, anywhere within the cell phone company's nationwide coverage areas will work.

Making a Cell Phone Company's Internet Wireless

When you get Internet through your cell phone company, it is already wireless. However, you will need to purchase a mobile broadband device. Currently, there are numerous devices available. You can obtain either a wireless card or USB adapter that will allow you to connect to the cell phone towers. You could also use a mobile broadband router. The mobile broadband router is good for Internet use on more then one computer.

References

• High Speed Internet
• Verizon Wireless