Broadband On The Go
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Written by: IanKnight
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Word Count: 498 |
Date: Fri, 7 May 2010 |
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Mobile broadband hasn't been around for long, but it has already transformed the way that we access the web. Launched in 2007, the dongle enjoyed an almost immediate popularity explosion, with millions of Brits now benefiting from internet on the go.
Unless youve spent the last couple of years living in Antarctica, youll probably be aware of how mobile broadband works. By plugging a small, portable USB modem like a dongle into your laptop, you will be able to browse the web and check emails anywhere that has signal.
There are some great plusses to investing in a mobile broadband device, some of which will be immediately evident. If you travel frequently and find yourself using expensive pay-as-you-go hotel and coffee shop broadband networks, a dongle could save you both money and time. Its also a useful device for anybody who has a long train ride to work and wants to make the most of their daily commute.
Another reason to consider mobile broadband is that it saves having to sign up for a fixed-term standard broadband contract. If you rent rather than own your home and tend to move around frequently, this is a great plus as there's no need to commit to remaining in a certain location; simply take your dongle with you when you move on.
Like mobile phones, dongles can be purchased on a contract or a pay as you go basis. The option to use only what you pay for could be attractive if youre a sporadic web browser or simply dont have the financial security necessary to take out a contract.
That isnt to say that there are no downsides to broadband on the go. The speed and quality of the connection is dependent on network coverage, and you may find that your dongle doesnt work in your local area. Most companies will offer to reimburse you for your purchase if this is the case, but its worth researching the coverage in your neighbourhood before you buy.
At present, there is also a question mark over connection speeds. Despite some mobile broadband companies marketing speeds of up to 7 MB, most users will find themselves restricted to 1.5 or 2 MB for the majority of the time. Speeds are slowly improving ? but if you regularly use the web to download large files, stream videos or play games, you should consider retaining a landline connection for the time being.
Despite a few inevitable downsides, mobile broadband has to be one of the most useful inventions of the new millennium. In this age of internet dependence, a dongle is a device that most of us simply can't live without.
About the Author
Vodafones mobile broadband is great if you are on the move. You can now take your office with you says a Tanesha Spinka.
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