Thanks to recent innovations in technology, wireless internet access is now readily available in laptop computers, PDAs and even cell phones. Emerging variations such as EV-DO and WiMax have helped wireless connectivity evolve into one of the most dominant forms of broadband internet access. With the increase in speed, you are no longer restricted to basic mobile activities like email and text messaging. A WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider) gives you the ability to download streaming multimedia files and perform other actions just as you could from the internet connection in your home or office.
Types of Providers
Many people have the misconception that wireless internet access allows you to make a connection from anywhere. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Service providers must utilize a series of towers to transmit the internet signal, a process that is quite similar to how cell phone towers operate. Because this is a costly, time-consuming initiative, wireless internet service providers are limited.
As of now, there are primarily two type of providers available: National WISPs and Local WISPs.
National WISPs are companies with much greater reach. These providers have more wireless towers which in turn, gives them the ability to deliver service to a larger number of users. Some of the most common examples of national WISPs include Boingo, Clearwire and T-Mobile.
Local WISPs are smaller companies that cater to specific regions and cities. These providers typically only cover remote areas of smaller towns where cable or DSL services are not available.
Although broadband wireless cellular networks are not available in all areas, they are becoming widespread to the point where finding a service is a little easier. These days, you can make a connection in New York at speeds nearly 10 times faster than what you get with the average dial-up modem. If you have a need to regularly business on the go, this is a technology you may want to look into. To help with your search, we have listed details on three of the most popular wireless internet service providers.
Verizon Mobile Broadband Wireless Internet Access
Verizon’s wireless internet products and services are designed to meet a wide range of mobile needs. Coverage is available in several major cities and more than 200 airports, offering faster speeds and efficiency when checking your email and browsing the internet. When you roam out of your area, you are covered by National Access, which is capable of reaching speeds up to 144 kbps.
Currently available in more than 13,000 cities, AT&T’s broadband wireless internet service isn’t nationwide but its almost there. The service is enabled by the Edge network and the BroadbandConnect network, which is powered by 3G technology. Together these networks help to expand high-speed connectivity across well over 270 people.
Sprint’s wireless internet service is power by its Power-Vision EV-DO network. This service is available in several major markets and a few smaller ones as well. Sprint offers some of the fastest speeds around and supports wireless connectivity in a number of its mobile devices.
Considerations for WISPs
The wireless internet service for you all depends on your individual needs. If you require internet access for traveling purposes, you may need a provider with nationwide reach. This type of service will increase your chances of finding hotspots in metro areas and places where lots of people are crowded together. After finding a reliable provider, you should be able to make a connection in airports, malls, schools, hotels and the local Starbucks.
