Mobile Internet Access Comparison

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Pros and cons of different Internet-on-the-Go options[br][br][br] [br][br]Mobile internet access options range from using free Wi-Fi at a hotspot to having a mobile broadband network device on your laptop or buying a mobile hotspot device for "anywhere, anytime" internet access over a cellular network.[br][br][br]Although Wi-Fi and 4G data connections are complementary technologies, sometimes you have to choose one over the other for either budget reasons (mobile internet data plans, especially for several devices, can be costly) or technological limitations (when the Apple iPad first came out, for example, you had to choose between getting a Wi-Fi-only model or wait for the version that offered 3G as well as Wi-Fi).[br][br]Here's a look at the pros and cons of different ways to stay connected while traveling or just on the run. (They're ordered below by least to most expensive options, but each has benefits and disadvantages.)[br][br]Wi-Fi Hotspots[br]Most hotspots are public locations (airports, hotels, coffeeshops) where you can connect your smartphone or laptop wirelessly to the establishment's internet service.[br][br]Pros: Many hotspots are free, you can find them fairly easily in urban and suburban areas, and food and drinks are often available for purchase.[br]Cons: Can be costly even if it's free if you must buy the establishment's coffee/food/etc. Wi-Fi hotspots are also usually unsecured (no WPA encryption), and to use the hotspot you have to locate it first, then physically be within range of the hotspot's access point.[br]Best for: Using as an occasional virtual office or while traveling.[br]Internet Cafes or Cybercafes[br]Internet cafes rent computer workstations and sometimes also provide Wi-Fi internet access.[br][br][br]Pros: You don't need to tote a laptop with you, the cafe may have printers/scanners available, and you can often also buy food or drinks.[br]Cons: Fewer locations than wi-fi hotspots, can get expensive if you need to work on them for long periods of time, may be prone to viruses/other security issues.[br]Best for: Travelers (especially international travel), quick/emergency Internet needs.[br]Tethering[br]On some cellular networks, you can use your cell phone as a modem for your laptop to go online.[br][br]Pros: Go online anywhere you have a cellular signal, more secure web surfing than sending data over a public open wireless hotspot, depending on your cell phone provider you may not have to pay any extra fees (besides the cell phone's data plan).[br]Cons: Reception can be spotty in some areas or conditions, slowest speed of these options, not allowed by some carriers or you may be charged extra for tethering.[br]Best for: Internet access when there's no Wi-Fi available.[br]Mobile Broadband (3G or 4G on your Laptop):[br]Using a built-in mobile broadband card or a USB modem on your laptop or portable mobile hotspot device, you can get high-speed wireless internet on your laptop wherever you go.[br][br]Pros: Go online anywhere you have a cellular signal, speeds comparable to residential DSL.[br]Cons: Reception can be spotty in some areas or conditions, usually metered or capped at 5GB per month of data.[br]Best for: Occasional to regular internet use in locations when there's no Wi-Fi available.

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