Wireless Internet

Wireless internet is available for subscribers that purchase a wireless router and connect it to the modem from their service provider. Anyone with wireless capability in their computer, laptop, hand-held device or cell phone can connect to the internet. A password may need to be entered if the owner has encrypted the service.

Wireless public internet is also known as “WiFi” or 802.11 networking. It is growing in popularity and ads for the service can be seen popping up in airports, coffee shops, fast food chains, libraries and hotels. Some cities are using the technology as a way to offer citizens low cost internet service at home. The service allows you to connect to the internet “hot spots” anywhere it is offered if you have a wireless transmitter in your laptop computer or data capability in your cell phone.

• Multiple users can connect to the high speed service simultaneously
• Public wireless is available in most public locations
• Public wireless is available in other countries
• Public wireless is available in many residential areas
• Great for people that travel frequently
• Public wireless lets you pay for 1 service that goes where you go
• Eliminates roaming fees and long distance charges with VoIP
• Public wireless can be low cost

• T-1 quality service can be expensive
• There is currently not a universal standard in place for creating web content for cell phones
• Public wireless speeds can be very slow, as slow as dial-up at times
• Can experience low speeds with multiple users
• Cell phone data packages can be costly in addition to regular voice packages
• It is not available everywhere unless you pay for a T-1
• You may need to purchase a wireless card for your laptop
• Anything you transmit over public wireless may be seen publicly