Mobile broadband provides high-speed internet access through cell phone carriers. It requires a cellular modem and coverage within transmission range of a cell tower. It has replaced hotspots and evolved to include computers. Considerations when choosing a provider include coverage and network speed. Plans can be flexible with flat monthly fees or pay-as-you-go options.
Mobile broadband refers to high-speed Internet access provided by cell phone carriers. Using mobile broadband, you can get online from any device that supports Internet access and has a cellular modem. The only requirement is that the user be within transmission range of a cell tower controlled or subcontracted by the carrier. In short, if you have cell service, you will have internet access from a taxi, bus, train, park, beach or lobby.
Before mobile broadband, the only way to get internet access outside your home or office was through a hotspot. A hotspot provides localized Internet access over a wireless network, often offered for free. Many coffee shops, bookstores, and even municipalities maintain hotspots for public use. The disadvantage of a hotspot is that the transmission range is limited to the surrounding area.
Mobile broadband Internet service over existing cellular networks. This started out as a simple way to offer products and services to cell phone users, such as ringtones and wallpapers, the ability to check e-mail, and even browse the web. However, cellular internet was expensive and slow, compared to online digital subscriber (DSL) and cable technologies.
As cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) have become more versatile and ubiquitous, the demand for mobile broadband has grown. At the same time, the cellular network has evolved, making it possible to send more data at faster speeds. Prices have also decreased, ensuring greater accessibility. Today, cellular broadband is not just for cell phones and PDAs, but for computers as well. Only a cellular modem is required, which can be purchased as a USB dongle or in ExpressCard® format.
Whether a cellular modem is built into the device or purchased separately, it must be branded for the particular operator that will be providing the mobile broadband service. For those with cellular service, it’s probably cheaper to stick with this carrier, as discounts are often given for existing customers with cellular plans. However, there are some considerations when choosing a mobile broadband provider.
The first consideration is coverage. The advantage of cellular broadband is that you can be on the go while still being logged in. Whether it’s for sheer convenience or for business, choosing a carrier that has coverage in the required areas is a primary concern. Note that some operators advertise widespread coverage, while much of it is obtained through roaming contracts. “Roaming” applies when a customer of carrier “A” is in an area covered only by cell towers owned by carrier “B”. The customer can use carrier “B” cell towers to maintain service, but roaming charges may apply and can be expensive.
The other important consideration is the speed of the carrier’s network. First and second generation networks, or 1G and 2G, have given way to third generation (3G) networks. 3G mobile broadband can channel data at up to 2 Megabits per second (Mbps), commensurate with a mid-range DSL plan. Fourth generation or 4G networks can transfer data up to 100 Mbps moving or 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) stationary. However, cutting-edge technology is often geographically limited until it can be widely implemented. The good news is that carriers are constantly competing with each other to provide the fastest services, so it pays to shop around but read the fine print.
Mobile broadband plans can be quite flexible. For those requiring unlimited access, a flat monthly fee will apply, but all broadband plans typically include bandwidth caps, including unlimited plans. Cellular broadband can also be purchased on a pay-as-you-go basis, by purchasing a 24-hour pass in case of an emergency when other networks are unavailable. If an upcoming business trip or vacation is planned, access can also be purchased in weekly increments, ensuring that the internet is available 24/7. To learn about the myriad of cellular options and modems available, visit the cell phone carriers of your choice.
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