Wireless broadband helps you to access internet without the need of wires. Both home wireless broadband and wi-fi broadband in a hotspot mean the same thing– it is just wireless broadband access. Neither Ethernet cables nor wires are needed to connect your modem and your PC or laptop.
For home wireless broadband, you need a wireless router and other wireless equipment like network adapter etc.
If you want to access wi-fi broadband in a public wi-fi hotspot, you would need a laptop with built-in wireless feature.
What is a wireless broadband router?
Wireless broadband router is a device that allows many PCs/laptops to be connected wirelessly and share a single broadband connection. This way, users can freely move with their devices around within the wireless area and surf the net all the while.
Wireless router needs to be connected to modem using network cable. Once connected to internet, wireless router transmits signals which are received by laptops or PCs or gaming consoles. You would need to install network adapters on these devices to make them go wireless.
Benefits of wireless broadband network
No cable between you and modem so you get more freedom to move around.
With wireless networking, you can access broadband internet at any location within wireless signal area.
Many computers/laptops, game consoles or any wireless enabled devices can share an internet connection using a wireless router.
How to find wireless broadband providers?
Most broadband providers in UK offer wireless support. Probably, you will get a free wireless router when you sign up with major UK broadband ISPs like BT, Virgin Media or AOL.
Check the broadband comparison sites to find which providers offer wireless support or free wireless routers. Read broadband reviews to help you compare and choose a suitable wireless broadband deal.
Using wireless broadband in home
Before you plan to use home wireless broadband, decide these things:
- Do you want to go wireless as a single user?
- Or you want to setup home wireless networking that will allow others to share your broadband connection?
Either way, you need to install wireless router first, just use the instructions given in the CD that came with the router. Second, your laptop or PC should have built-in wireless feature or you need to install network adapter on these devices. Our Guide to Setting up Wireless networking is a complete solution to all your needs.
Wireless broadband Vs Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband is for broadband users on the move. With mobile broadband, you do not feel as much restricted to a location as wireless broadband. Mobile broadband is much easier to use as you would need a dongle to access mobile broadband.
However, wireless broadband is mostly fixed broadband turned to wireless. This means, you have the usual benefits of home broadband like larger download limit along with greater mobility.
Mobile broadband is not a right option for heavy users who might better take wi-fi broadband as an alternative.