Traditionally, broadband internet has been something accessed in an office, or at home, set up in a fixed location. However, in recent years, wireless solutions have become more widely available as an alternative. Mobile internet is something that has been around for a while, using mobile phone networks to transfer data, at a relatively slow rate.
Since 2006, mobile broadband has become more popular, allowing a similar 'anywhere' service, but at a relatively fast rate. The drawback of this, however, is that mobile broadband is expensive for regular usage, and usually involves longer contracts than fixed line services (often two years), with customers also being tied down to a fixed amount of monthly usage.
An alternative to mobile broadband which can be set up by any home user with an internet connection is wireless broadband. This takes a fixed line broadband connection and transfers the signal from it wirelessly within a relatively local range (usually within a building). Initially it was necessary to purchase equipment for wireless broadband yourself, which consists of a wireless router and a compatible wireless receiver on the computer. Two developments, however, have made doing so largely unnecessary.
Firstly, many broadband providers now recognise the value in a wireless connection, and will include a free wireless router within the contract for all new customers. Those that do not offer one for free are usually able to provide quality equipment for a reasonable price or to advise where to buy. This means that users do not have to use the broadband connection in just the room that happens to have the physical broadband line end.
Depending on the range of the device, the signal can be picked up throughout the house, or even in the garden, making usage more flexible, and avoiding problems of rearranging one's home or furniture. It is also a good solution for those who would like to use more than one computer with their broadband connection. As long as both computers are wireless enabled, or have a wireless USB device, then both can use the same line at the same time. There is no limit to how many computers can use a line at once, aside from those advised by the router manufacturer, and the limits coming from the lower speed per user when more are added.
There are likely to be contractual restrictions with most providers as to sharing a line with neighbours, but those jointly sharing the same property, such as students, find wireless broadband at home a very good solution. The other development that has meant that most people do not need to buy their own equipment, is the acceptance and promotion of wireless (labelled Wi Fi) within the computer industry. Almost all new laptop and net book computers are now wireless enabled straight out of the box and will only need a wireless network to connect to.
Retailers, hotels, restaurants, bars, airports and public bodies have been quick to recognise the potential of wireless broadband, and services are now available at many locations via a password. Wireless internet is especially useful if combined with mobile internet, allowing flexibility at home and 'free' access at certain businesses via wireless broadband, and your own coverage at any other location with a signal, via mobile broadband.