Everyone remembers when the ear-piercing sounds of dial-up were hopeful, meaning that  Internet access was only a few minutes away. Now those sounds have been replaced with silence thanks to innovative services like Wi-Fi, advanced home modems and routers. This blog will break down the Internet hierarchy so you can find which service sounds right for your life.

Dial-Up. If you have ever had dial-up you know two things. One, it’s slow. Two, it’s cheap. The slow service is definitely not ideal, and even though it comes cheap, you get what you pay for.  In the hierarchy of the Internet, dial-up doesn’t make it far up the ladder.

Satellite. Satellite Internet is a wonderful and ideal choice for rural homeowners that aren’t able to get services like DSL and cable. Satellite Internet typically has speeds that are much faster than dial-up, but not as fast as cable. To get satellite Internet you would need a satellite dish at your home that sends signals to a number of your provider’s satellites. Even with all that traveling, your Internet connection is still surprisingly fast! In the hierarchy of the Internet, satellite Internet is somewhere in the middle. </p>

DSL. DSL service delivers Internet through your phone line. DSL speeds stick to the same family as satellite speeds. One of the major differences however is that DSL uses your phone line to deliver Internet. That means if your phone line goes down, your Internet access will be terminated as well. In the hierarchy of Internet, DSL is somewhere in the middle.

Cable Internet. Cable service comes through your cable line. Just how DSL access is reliant on your phone line, cable Internet access is tethered to your cable line. Cable speeds are typically the fastest, which is great, but there are drawbacks. If you live in a dense area, cable companies try and pack as many subscribers onto one signal as possible, which can be a problem when everyone is trying to get online at the same time. You most often don’t get the maximum speeds that are advertised. Consequently, if you live in a rural area, you most likely aren’t eligible for fast cable speeds since they are usually only available in those densely-populated regions. In the hierarchy of Internet, cable sits very close to the top.

Perhaps at the very top of the Internet hierarchy is wireless Internet. Wireless Internet gives you freedom, speed and reliability no matter where you go or what you do when you have a provider, much like CLEAR. Wireless is definitely where it’s at.

Each service is different and can offer different things. Who knows which new and innovative service will be next.

Let’s face it, the first iteration of a new technology will always be available to some degree, but it gets surpassed by bigger and better things. Vinyl records became CDs. Cellphones became smartphones. Typewriters became computers. Yes, you can go into a few stores here and there and find the old technology, but society moves on.

That’s what happened with dial-up. However, the reason dial-up is still popular is that it’s a great option for rural customers. People who live in the middle of nowhere can’t always get DSL or cable Internet. Dial-up is available anywhere. All you need is a phone line.

Dial-up connections and how they work

Dial-up is what people first used for an Internet connection. It connects your computer to your phone line, but doesn’t give you the luxury of using both services simultaneously. For instance, if you’re on the phone and someone else connects to the Internet, your call will drop. Similarly, if you’re on the Internet and your phone rings, you’ll be booted off. With dial-up, data and voice is transmitted over the same line. Therefore, it can’t handle both at once.

Once this gets too annoying, many dial-up subscribers opt for a second phone line so they can do both things at the same time. However, this costs them more money.

The other thing to keep in mind about dial-up is that it’s incredibly slow. It’s the slowest service out there, offering speeds at only 56K. If you’re a turtle, you’ll love dial-up.

Using wireless Internet with dial-up

Since dial-up is so slow, can it be used with a wireless router? The short answer is yes, but it’s tricky and it’ll still be very slow. You’ll need three things to get started:

1. Wireless router compatible with dial-up connections
2. Wireless access point
3. Modem

A wireless access point is something you use to relay a signal between wireless devices, like your router and your computer. To get set up, all you have to do is connect the modem to the router, then connect the access point to the router as well.

In short, dial-up is the most primitive service. Check back next week for an in-depth explanation of another connection type. In the meantime, you can learn more about wireless Internet at places like wireless Internet Cleveland or wireless Internet Redmond, for example.

Typically speaking, there are several ways to connect devices: cables, wires, Ethernet, wi-fi, infrared (remote controls) and Bluetooth. You might think of Bluetooth as the earpiece device you see people walking around with. The device itself isn’t called Bluetooth. Rather, the technology it’s using is called Bluetooth.

Bluetooth capability is standard on most phones, computers, and laptops. You’ll also occasionally find it on cameras, printers, and even kitchen appliances.

How Bluetooth works

Wi-fi and Bluetooth are perhaps the most similar. However, the difference between them is that wi-fi is mainly for computers on a network. Bluetooth is used for smaller-scale, cross-device information transfers in a tight area.

Bluetooth uses radio waves for signaling and to locate other devices. It’s like a walkie-talkie, but one that doesn’t strain your battery too much. When devices are connected but not actively transmitting a lot of information (idle), the signal downgrades to preserve the battery of each device.

Bluetooth can sync up to eight devices at once. So if you’re wanting to listen to your wireless speakers, play on your smartphone and laptop, and juggle bananas while reading the New York Times on your iPad, you can also do that while UStreaming your dog’s magic show. It’s the American dream!

Bluetooth security with wireless devices

With any technology come some security concerns. There’s always a way to get around things. In the case of Bluetooth, it’s called Bluejacking. If you have a cellphone with Bluetooth, for example, you can send other Bluetooth users around you a message. You won’t know who it’s going to, but your phone can pick up the Bluetooth signals of other devices in your area. They won’t know who sent it, but you can see who checks their phone and know who it is.

Tying Bluetooth back to wireless Internet

So what do the two technologies have in common? Well first of all, Bluetooth is a wireless technology. Plus, the devices that use it are wireless.

Bluetooth is becoming a standard feature in many wireless devices these days. The more we depend on wireless signaling, the more devices we’ll see with Bluetooth capability. Case and point: Bluetooth refrigerators.

To learn more about Bluetooth and wireless Internet technology, you can visit specific pages like wireless Internet Greensboro or wireless Internet San Antonio. Or you can type in your zip code on this page.

Apple also recently released the capability to sync wirelessly with iTunes. However, it’s not as picture perfect as it seems. As usual, the technological innovations we salivate over have limitations. Regardless of where you get service – from wireless Internet providers Encino to wireless Internet providers Cumming – you’re sure to experience some frustration with these wireless Apple features.

Limitations of the iCloud service

First of all, you don’t get that much space for free. You have to purchase extra space if you have more content to backup than 5GB. Most of our hard drives these days are in the 500GB range, and most phones these days are around in the 20Gb range. So only 5GB? Granted the upgrades in storage capacity aren’t that expensive ($20/year for an extra 5GB), but still.

Don’t get us wrong. iCloud is a pretty sweet idea. But it has one more caveat. You don’t stream from iCloud; you download from iCloud. If you were dreaming of a world where you didn’t have to store any songs, pictures, music, books or videos on your devices and you could just stream them from the cloud – you were in fact dreaming.

Therefore, you’re kind of forced to ask yourself a lot of questions. What songs should I put in the cloud? Do I only want to play this song once? If so, then is it worth downloading? Wouldn’t it be faster and more sensible to just sync like I normally do in iTunes than to download songs from iCloud?

Limitations of wireless syncing

So let’s say you do choose to sync with iTunes instead of download from iCloud. You can try Apple’s new wireless sync method. But wait – a few things to remember first:

1. You have to plug your phone into a wall outlet in order to wirelessly sync. This is definitely not the definition of wireless.
2. You have to go into your settings and turn on wi-fi. So, not only do you have to be connected to wi-fi, but you have to actually go into your phone and turn it on. Maybe one of these days Apple will make a wi-fi quick switch.
3. Your laptop or computer needs to be awake. If it’s sleeping, you have to wake it up.

Yeah, these steps aren’t exactly like climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, but wireless syncing definitely isn’t as great as it seems. Neither is iCloud.

However, if you’re looking to upgrade a business Internet connection, a T1 line could do the trick. This article goes into detail about what a T1 is, how it works, and for whom it’s appropriate.

Using wireless Internet with a T1 line

The big seller about a T1 line is that it gives you a dedicated connection to the Internet. This means that nobody else will share bandwidth with you. Most T1 speeds start at 1.5 Mpbs. While this is considerably lower than the prices you’ve likely seen for basic home Internet, remember this: most home Internet speeds are significantly lower than advertised because you share bandwidth. This is especially true during peak hours – usually nights and weekends.

What is a Tier 1 network?

Often associated with a T1 line is a Tier 1, 2 or 3 network. A tiered network is the network level for your T1 line. When you’re using your T1 line, you’re actually using it to connect to a dedicated network.

If you do get a T1 line, you’ll want to go with a provider who operates their own Tier 1 network. One such company is XO Communications.

When it comes to home Internet, however, you’ll never hear about tiered networks because there isn’t a need for them. Homeowners typically don’t require secure lines, private bandwidth, etc.

T1 prices in your area

There’s a reason T1 lines are more appropriate for businesses: they’re much more expensive than basic home wireless Internet. A T1 line could cost as much as $350 a month as opposed to your basic home Internet service at around $30-$40 a month.

Wow, why would I want a T1 then? Again, you would want a T1 if you’re a small business owner who needs:

• A dedicated connection.
• A secure line.
• The capacity to handle up to 50 Internet users.

For these criteria, a T1 is the perfect solution. However, for basic home use (standard emailing, browsing and downloading), a normal connection is all you need.

You can learn more about your options – from wireless Internet Honolulu to wireless Internet Tampa – on this website.

You’ve likely heard of wi-fi, a wireless internet connection via some sort of router. You probably have wi-fi in your home. Wi-fi is very popular because it prevents you from having to plug your device (smart phone, computer, tablet, etc.) in. It simply lets your device pick up a signal around you and connect quickly.

A relatively new concept similar to wi-fi is called MiFi. MiFi is a small, portable wireless tool that gives you a wireless connection wherever you are. Ever needed wireless in a hotel room but didn’t want to pay for it? Or how about while you’re commuting on the bus or train? If you can’t afford to be without wi-fi, or don’t want to limit yourself to Starbucks and the airport, consider MiFi as another option.

Let’s say you are commuting on the train and you need to get something done for work on your way in. Sure, you could connect to your 3G or 4G network on your smartphone, but what if you needed to edit a presentation? You can do that on your phone and send it over 3G, but that could take a while.

If you had your computer connected to wi-fi, not only could you edit the PowerPoint on a larger screen, but you could email it to your coworkers much faster.

Wireless internet compared to MiFi

You might be wondering what the difference is between the two. Think of it this way:

• Wi-fi lets you connect wirelessly, but only if you’re in a free wi-fi zone or have the password to the network.
• MiFi gives you a portable wi-fi network that you can access from anywhere.

All you do is purchase a MiFi dongle and turn it on. Your device will sync with the wireless signal, and you won’t have to plug anything in. Most MiFi devices have a range of about 30 feet and can provide wi-fi for as many as five devices.

The questions you have to ask yourself are:

• Do I need to be able to access wi-fi at all times?
• Can I afford to be without wi-fi?
• Is the MiFi worth the extra cost, or should I just rely on free and/or unprotected wireless hotspots?
• How often do I need wi-fi outside of my home?

Before you make the plunge, consider whether you can survive without it. Learn more about your options – from wireless internet Elk Grove to wireless internet Federal Way – on this website.

Why should I bundle services?

Your first instinct might be to not bundle. However, consider the advantages of bundling services together:

• Bundling often allows you to group multiple services into one convenient bill. And even if you can’t do that, you can make multiple orders for multiple services on the same telephone call. Most people don’t enjoy spending a lot of time ordering things on the phone. Take advantage of an opportunity to knock out two or three things at once.
• Bundling often gives you better deals than you would normally get. Because you’re signing up for multiple services, companies often reduce rates or add extra bonus offers for people who bundle. This can help you save money each month, as well as get access to products and services you may not otherwise be able to get.
• Bundling makes things easier than ever. It’s a headache to order multiple services, schedule and pay for multiple installations, and keep up with multiple bills. Bundling can eliminate that headache altogether.

When you order a service, be sure to ask the representative about their connection with other providers of different services. You might strike gold and get great deals for multiple services on one call.

What other services would I need?

From wireless internet Columbia to wireless internet Huntington Beach, the right deals and bundles are out there. Besides standard cable and internet, there are also companies for in-home tech support, home security systems, energy solutions and more. Especially if you’re relocating, bundling can help lower your bills to account for the annoying cost of moving.

Get wireless internet bundles today for a more cost-efficient tomorrow

Times are tough these days. With the right bundles and right deals, you don’t have to take on hefty bills each month. Enter your zip code on this page to connect with our preferred provider. Be sure to ask about the other services you can get with your wireless internet service.

In today’s age of constant connectivity and “always-on” culture, many of us need a reliable wireless internet connection at all times. Smart phones can give that to us these days, but:

• Very few of them offer 4G speed.
• Even at 4G, cellphones can’t do everything on the internet that computers can.

It’s much easier to get online, do what you need to do, and move on to something else if you have a computer. But therein lies the problem: how do you take a wireless internet connection with you wherever you go?

The answer is a USB modem. USB modems allow you to plug a small modem directly into the USB port on your computer for an instant connection to a wireless network. Wireless internet Boise, for example, offers great speeds and reliable connectivity in Boise, ID. But it doesn’t stop there. With the right provider (see our “Best internet Providers” page), a super fast connection is only a USB modem away in your city.

Wireless internet USB modems

With an established wireless internet connection, your USB modem will power a wi-fi signal to your laptop wherever you go inside the network’s footprint.

USB modems are very small (only a few inches long), so they are not obtrusive and won’t weigh your laptop down. They’ll fit right in your pocket when you’re not using them.

They operate very easily – just plug and play – and they’re compatible with Mac and PC computers.

Wireless internet wherever, whenever

With a USB modem, you can take the internet with you on-the-go. This lets you:

• Check the status of your flight from the taxi cab.
• Video conference while you’re at the airport.
• Download and stream movies on the bus.
• Get work done while you’re sitting in the park.

Whether you’re looking for wireless internet providers Bellingham or wireless internet providers Odessa, you can get the connection you need from a USB modem and a reliable network. Check out our providers by clicking “Best internet Providers” on the left.

Get started with a constant wireless internet connection today in your area. Experience the portability and reliability of a USB modem you can depend on.

How to Get Wireless Internet on a Laptop on Your Couch?

We’ll start simple enough.  A home internet router will take your standard wired-in connection and convert for wireless use.  Then you can easily connect any wireless enabled device through the wireless access point.  However, traditional home routers only offer limited-range mobility.  Once you leave home you’ll need to find a new way to access your internet.

How to Get Wireless Internet on a Laptop on a Park Bench?

If you have a 4G internet connection, you can connect even in wide open spaces – so long as you’re in range of your 4G internet provider’s coverage network.  Not just a park bench, but practically everywhere citywide – rooftops, aboard the bus, and yes, your home as well.  CLEAR Internet created the first 4G network expanding to bring you more internet in more places over time.  Even smaller cities across the country may very well have CLEAR coverage in the area.  Verizon is currently expanding its newer 4G network, while ATT has a 4G upgrade currently in development.

How to Get Wireless Internet on a Laptop in the Middle of Nowhere?

While 4G offers newer technology and takes more resources to expand coverage, 3G coverage is still around for when you stray too far.  Sure, 3G will slow you down, but still far more convenient than no functional internet access whatsoever.  No, you won’t be able to book it at broadband speeds from the Mojave Desert, but Madawaska, Maine might be a better bet.

How to Get Wireless Internet on a Laptop Underwater?

Okay, that one’s impossible – for now at least, who knows what 5G will have in store.

How to Get Wireless Internet on a Laptop at a Price You Can Afford?

Getting wireless is well and good, but while you want wireless internet that’s blazing fast, you don’t want it to burn a hole in your pocket.  Even 4G wireless internet is now available on monthly plans to fit any budget, and wireless technology continues to develop, expect prices to drop even further.

There’s no reason sit stuck in one spot, whether wired-in or walled-in.  Find a plan that’s right for your budget and open your door to wireless internet in more places than you thought possible.

Officially sanctioned by the WiFi Alliance – a trade association that certifies Wireless technologies and products based on IEEE 802.11 standards (we’ll save “What is a WiFi IEEE 8.02.11 standard” for another day) – WiFi generally describes, but is not explicitly limited to, Wireless LAN, PAN and WAN connections.

What does the WiFi Alliance control?

• The WiFi Certification process, an exhaustive compatability examination in regards to performance and compatibility with other WiFi products and networks.
• The WiFi Certified Logo is a registered trademark of the WiFi Alliance and can only be used under permission from the WiFi Alliance.
• Governance of new WiFi specifications and initiatives.

Though the WiFi Alliance gets to maintain the official response to “What is WiFi?” the court of public opinion weighs in on WiFi a bit differently at times.  Like it or not, WiFi is at times attributed to a larger scope than the Alliance might spell out.

Are WiFi and WiMAX the same thing?

Getting into some gray area now, let’s rephrase the question.

So, what is WiFi in relation to WiMAX…?

In homage to middle school Geometry, consider WiFi and WiMAX a rectangle and square.  Yes, a square is a type of rectangle, but a rectangle is only a square it has 4 right angles and equal sides. Likewise, WiMAX can be categorized as a form of WiFi to some.  However, not all WiFi technology meets the advanced classification of WiMAX.

The analogy falls apart when you consider the relative area of squares and rectangles.  Assuming the same base, the area covered by a rectangle could extend far beyond that of its square brethren.  The same line of thinking could apply to the WiMAX-WiFi relationship inversely, as WiMAX technology affords citywide (~25 square miles per tower) wireless internet access.  What is WiFi’s typical range? Well, just count the steps you take away from your traditional home internet router as the reception bars begin to dwindle.

WiMAX also implies a level of performance and security that exceeds the base requirements of WiFi technology. On the other hand, the answer “what is WiFi?” could be draw conclusions from a laundry lists of examples. Both good and bad.

Consider:

• WiMAX is exclusive to 4G internet technology.
• WiFi connections exist in countless households, coffee shops, cafes – even standing unprotected or weakly encrypted at times.

Due to the large scale of constructing a WiMAX network, you won’t find a WiMAX connection available for commercial use without proper safety precautions. Plus, large investments have an inherently vested interest in the performance, so it’s unlikely a WiMAX network would stand as is were speed lagging or availability less than anticipated.

Perhaps the best way to answer “What is WiFi?” vs. “What is WiMAX?” is to break down the latter into the sum of its parts.  In short, WiMAX is WiFi if it ‘max’-ed out it’s potential.  As in, your slacking WiFi network got shipped off to Bootcamp and came back the best that it could be.  Faster, stronger, accountable, where it’s supposed to be when you expect it.  You know, like the WiFi that used to let you down… but upgraded to something that makes your life better.