wireless technology

[obrien11]

Hi,
I need some help understanding wireless internet. The only applications I am familiar with are wireless networks setup within a home or office. My question involves roaming around outside your home or office network and still having wireless internet access. I know certain cell phones are capable of this (for example checking e-mail in your car or a store), but I assume they use the cellular networks, and would not be able to check mail if they are in an area where cell service is not available. So is there a way notebooks could function like the cell phones using wireless technology to check e-mail and surf the net like cell phones do? For example, could you go into a café and check your e-mail on your notebook even if the café doesn?t offer any kind of internet service (i.e. no Ethernet ports or wireless hubs)?

I really appreciate your help. I know very little about this and want to understand how it works. Thanks.

 

[JackMDS]

Because of the word Wireless people tend to confuse: Wireless LAN, Wireless Broadband, and Cellular Wireless DialUp.

These are three different installations that functionally have nothing to do one with the other.

Wireless Broadband is an installation that enables people to receive Broadband Internet through their satellite TV service. It involves installation of special Modem-Receiver, but as far as the user is concerned pass the Modem it uses regular computer hardware. (Has nothing to do with public service or coffee shops).

Wireless Cellular Internet is a service provided by few Cellular phone carriers (Verizon, PCS Sprint), and enable you to log onto the Internet using your cellular phone, you need a phone unit that is capable to do so and it works through your phone and your account. These phone can be connected to your laptop and will provide you with a slow Internet connection (19kb/s) like a regular Home dialup Modem. (Has nothing to do with public service or coffee shops).

Wireless LAN is best described here.

AnandTech - FAQ. What do I need for Wireless Networking?

Some coffee shops installed Wireless LAN in their establishment, and you can come and use their Internet Boadband Connection with your Wireless Laptop. Basically they allow you to join their LAN wirelessly.

 

[obrien11]

Thanks. That helps me get going in the right direction.

 

[mikepeck]

Both Sprint and Verizon (and T-Mobile which is a little slower) have PCCard modems that use their 3g cellular networks to attain speeds of 90k a second. I have used the sprint service before and it is quite fast (cable connected to my phone). Verizon and Sprint have the best coverage for their dataplans, but T-Mobile has the best deal ($30 a month for unlimited access). Verizon is free but uses your minutes (which could be good if you have unlimited nights and weekends). Sprint is the most expensive but arguably the fastest.

Good luck.

 

[kt]

Originally posted by: mikepeck
Both Sprint and Verizon (and T-Mobile which is a little slower) have PCCard modems that use their 3g cellular networks to attain speeds of 90k a second. I have used the sprint service before and it is quite fast (cable connected to my phone). Verizon and Sprint have the best coverage for their dataplans, but T-Mobile has the best deal ($30 a month for unlimited access). Verizon is free but uses your minutes (which could be good if you have unlimited nights and weekends). Sprint is the most expensive but arguably the fastest.

Good luck.

Sprint PCS Vision option is $5/month for me. It's unlimited use and doesn't count towards your minute. I use it all the time with my laptop. Much better and faster than regular dialup.