Understanding wireless Internet service basics

Wireless Internet access is, in this case, not the same as seeing a Web page or e-mail on your phone. Instead, wireless Internet here means a true broadband connection to a laptop or desktop computer via radio or cellular signals.

I recommend: Why bother? Well, a couple of years ago, wireless Internet was slow and trouble to use. Now, thanks to technological advances, getting on the Web from literally anywhere in cellular range really works. Naturally, big cellular companies are piling on, including Verizon, Sprint-Nextel, Cingular (now AT&T), and T-Mobile. See more Internet service providers at Business.com.

Wireless Internet got its start as an alternative for rural users

Since the phone companies weren't in a hurry to build out DSL and cable was slow off the market to compete, a lot of smaller, regional wireless Internet providers spring up in the Midwest and Western states. You might get a better deal on rates if you compare.

I recommend: Some key vendors of wireless Internet access include MobilePro, Clearwire, Speednet, Plateau Meganet, Midwest Wireless, Mesa Networks, Commspeed, Ama Techtel, Prairie Inet, and Camvera. See a directory of wireless internet service providers at Business.com.

Wireless Internet access is not limited to laptops

While nothing can really beat the robustness of a nice strong laptop for most office use, the fact that wireless Internet access is being realized over cellular networks has given new life to the moribund handheld computer, or PDA, category.

I recommend: You can easily do much of your wireless Internet activities like e-mail and basic Web browsing using devices from Blackberry or a smartphone from Motorola, Samsung, Nokia and Sony Ericsson device.

What wireless Internet providers will do next

Think of wireless Internet service in stages: Wi-Fi connected us in so-called hotspots like hotel lobbies, then wireless Internet service reached out through cellular. Next up is Wi-Max, a Wi-Fi standard that can reach for miles and through natural obstacles like buildings.

I recommend: It's in development, but Wi-Max is already being rolled out in some key markets by wireless Internet providers. Laptops will have to go through re-engineering, too, but take full advantage, but it won't take long. Follow developments at the Wi-Max Forum.