In today’s environment access to the Internet is critical to organizations.  With a mobile workforce, the need for ubiquitous access is even more important. However the cost and complexity of providing mobile access increases over that of traditional PCs.

Overview:

WiFi vs Wireless Broadband

There are two primary methods to access the Internet from a laptop; WiFi and wireless broadband.  WiFi connectivity is provided by the WiFi card built into most laptops.  In order to access the Internet the user needs to find and attach to a WiHi “hotspot”.  Many locations offer free WiFI access (coffee shops, etc).  While free, it must be considered that such networks are also unsecure.  When travelling, many users can access a WiFi network from their hotel rooms, at a fee.  For a highly mobile user, finding a WiFi network can be problematic, free or not.  Such users would benefit from a wireless broadband solution.

A wireless broadband connection is like taking your Internet access with you.  There is no need to find a “hotspot”.  Such a device uses the same infrastructure as cellular phones, with the same or similar coverage areas.  Some laptops have a built in wireless broadband card while others require an external device to provide connectivity.  Regardless of the hardware, a monthly subscription is typically required from a carrier such as Verizon, Cingular, etc.

Alternatives:

Tethered Modems

An alternative to purchasing a mobile broadband card is to use a device most users carry already, their cell phone, as a “tethered modem”.  By connecting a cell phone to their laptop, users can have broadband access to the Internet without the need to incur additional hardware costs or subscribe to additional long term monthly data plans. 

In order to enable a cell phone for use as a tethered modem, contact the carrier for the phone and inquire about data plan options.  Upgrades are typically added to existing voice plans.  The charges for adding data vary, but are usually half that of a data plan for an additional device.  Some providers may charge an additional fee to enable the tethered modem feature.  Be sure to get a plan with enough minutes!

Recommendation:

The cost effective solution is using cell phones as tethered modems.  The cost savings are significant over time.  The one drawback is when accessing the Internet and a voice call is received or placed, the Internet connection pauses (but not dropped).  Most find this insignificant when weighed against the savings.

Chuck Virtu