Wireless internet is exactly what it sounds like—internet access without the wires and cables. You've probably heard it referred to as mobile hotspot or mobile internet.
Different from cable internet and other wired internet options, wireless internet doesn't require a modem and router setup in your home, nor does it require a technician to install the connection in your house or apartment. Wireless internet simply requires a mobile hotspot device, cell phone, tablet, or other compatible device with a SIM card slot.
You'll pick a wireless or mobile internet plan from the selection of
carriers, as you would a regular wired internet plan, and once you have your mobile hotspot device and SIM card, you're ready to go!
You'll be able to connect to the internet via the hotspot device, just like you would connect to a router. Simply find the network (from your smart TV, phone, computer, etc.), enter the password and you're connected to the internet!
Wireless internet plans are similar to cell phone plans in that you have monthly postpaid or prepaid plan—it's your choice!
As always, when figuring out which internet plan to choose, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Mobile internet is great for those who need internet access for their devices while they're out and about, but for those wanting the best value for money, a wired internet option may be a better choice.
Pros of Wireless/Mobile Internet
Cons of Wireless/Mobile Internet
If you only need internet for basic web browsing and checking out your social media feeds, mobile internet speeds should suffice. Even streaming your favorite Netflix videos should be fine with wireless internet, however, you're better off looking at a wired option if you're after speed reliability.
The other thing to look out for when choosing a mobile internet plan is how fast the tethering speeds are. Some plans only allow 3G speeds when using your mobile internet device as a hotspot.
The great thing about wireless internet is that the installation process is simple compared to wired internet. All you need is a mobile hotspot device that has a SIM card slot and you're good to go! You can even use a spare cell phone to run your mobile internet on.
Ask your mobile internet provider if they sell hotspot devices. If not, you can likely find one at your local electronics store or online. If you're unsure about what kind of device to buy, talk to your mobile internet provider.
Once you've got your mobile hotspot device up and running, it's easy to connect your other devices to your wireless internet account. Simply find your wireless internet network via your device (as you normally would when searching for any WiFi connection), enter your password and there you have it.
When you're setting up your mobile internet, make sure you require a password, otherwise your connection will be available and free for anyone within your proximity to use. You don't want strangers leeching off your wireless internet now do you?
There are some fairly cheap wireless internet plans around for under $30/month, however, note that your speeds probably won't be the fastest and you'll likely only get a small amount of data to use each month.
Faster speeds and more monthly data come at a cost, making mobile internet a last resort for those who want unlimited data and lightning fast speeds on a budget. If you're always out and about, then wireless internet could be well worth your while.