What is wireless broadband?
As the name suggests, wireless broadband (also known as WiFi) is a broadband connection to the internet that is accessed without the use of wires. The most common way of accessing wireless broadband is via a wireless router.
How do wireless routers work?
The router converts the signals coming across your internet connection (on the same principle as a wireless telephone works) and broadcasts them around an area. This broadcasted signal is then picked up by wireless-enabled devices such as laptops and gaming consoles giving them wireless broadband connectivity throughout the house.
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This type of wireless broadband suits:
- Families where multiple family members want to access broadband at once from different rooms of the house.
- Gamers using PS3s, PSPs, Nintendo Wiis and other wireless gaming consoles.
- Laptop users- no need to be tied down by your telephone point.
Wireless routers are commonly included in wireless broadband packages and are popular in homes where multiple devices are connecting to the internet at the same time. Many ISPs supply customers with wireless routers (often for free) allowing them to go wireless.
Wi-fi is great if you want to access broadband in every room in your house without the use of cables – it is especially useful for those with laptops. You can even enjoy broadband in your garden.
This may not be your best option if:
- You solely connect to the internet on a desktop computer that is near a telephone point.
- You mostly access broadband on your laptop on the move as well as at home. In this case you should consider mobile broadband (described below) as it may give you greater flexibility.
How to ‘Go Wireless’
You will need to set up a simple wireless local area network (WLAN) – but don’t worry – most broadband providers provide simple ‘plug and play’ wireless equipment which involves little more than:
- Plug your telephone line into a wireless modem/ router.
- Load up a CD-ROM with the wireless broadband software.
That said, if you do get stuck, most ISPs provide immaculate support to help you set up your home wireless network if you get stuck. Or take a look at our guide to solving wireless broadband problems.
Mobile broadband
Mobile broadband is the latest technology in wireless broadband; it allows you to access the internet on your laptop at home and on the move you can even use it when you’re abroad.
You don’t have to be plugged into an Ethernet connection or even be in range of a hotspot because this technology provides you with your very own portable USB modem/dongle.
Mobile broadband USB modems/dongles
- Plug directly into one of the USB ports of your laptop or PC
- Don’t require a source of electricity
- Are small and discreet
- Are perfect for transporting and because there are no wires it resolves any clutter issues in the home.
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