Do I Need an Internet Provider to Use Wireless Internet?

Users can connect to wireless networks within range of public places, such as parks.

Businesses such as cafes, restaurants and airports often provide free wireless Internet connections, sometimes known as Wi-Fi hot spots. These wireless networks allow a computer or smartphone user to access the Internet from a variety of locations on her wireless-capable device.

Wireless Connection

When a user searches for and connects to a wireless network with a laptop computer or other device, the laptop is connecting to the signal from a device such as a wireless router. The user can connect to an open network or to a protected network---if he knows the password---as long as the user is within reception range of the wireless router. The connection does not need to be from his own Internet provider.

Benefits

Wireless networks allow users to connect without a tangle of wires. The user's mobility is not limited to the length of a network (Ethernet) cable.

Considerations

Network administrators may inadvertently create a wireless network without protection that is open to the public. This creates a breach in network security both for the owner of the wireless network and its users.

Warning

When a user connects to a network that is not intended to be public, she is using the resources of a paying Internet consumer and this may raise moral or legal dilemmas. Furthermore, the rightful owner can legally remove access to the network at any time. Also, any unauthorized users have no access to technical support for the Internet service.

References

• High Speed Internet: Wireless Internet Service
• CNET Reviews: Wireless network buying guide
• Wi-Fi-FreeSpot Directory: FAQs