Ok don't laugh.....but I am not very savvy when it comes to understanding computers. I could use a little help

Question

Ok don't laugh.....but I am not very savvy when it comes to understanding computers. I DO have a desktop PC at home with dial up internet service, but the thing is........... I want to buy a new laptop and get wireless internet service. I have read a few articles online about WiFi etc but it's all technical mumbo jumbo that seems confusing. I want the kind of wireless internet that allows me to connnect from just about anywhere. Even the beach. I need to know how to chose a laptop that is comaptible with wireless service. Also, where do I go in order to GET the wireless service? Do I ask for WiFi or are there other alternatives? What are "hotspots" all about? Would I even need a "hotspot"? Do I need some sort of a "card"? or "box"? I'm just clueless when it comes to this sort of thing. Can someone please explain in simple terms? I'd appreciate any advice.

Thanks!

Answer 1

You are talking about 2 different forms of wireless. There is Local wireless and Roaming wireless.

Local wireless includes you to have a internet connection and have a device called a router that broadcasts the wifi. this usually won't go farther than your house. This is also the same technology that is labeled as a "HotSpot"

Roaming wireless is a bit different. It uses cell phone technology in the form of a datacard that you plug into your cell phone. The speed is a little slower, but efficient to read emails and browse the net. It is also avaiable almost anywhere you could get cell phone service.

Answer 2

Almost any laptop built in the last 2 or more years comes with built-in Wifi. It should be standard on a new laptop.

Finding hotspots is the problem. Some are public in cafes, universities, etc. Some will charge a daily or monthly fee.

The cell phone companies offer a different sort of wireless data service, that generally costs around $50 to $60 per month, and work anywhere that company has cell service. To do that you need to get one of their wireless data cards and stick it in the card slot on the laptop and sign up for the service. Just go to the Sprint, Verizon, ATT wireless websites for more info.

Answer 3

Ok, first when you go buy a laptop make sure u get a knowledgeable sales person.Then make sure you the laptop has a slot for a wireless card that you can get free from sprint when you sign up for a monthly plan.Hot spots refer to wifi access points or wireless acces points if you don't have a wireless card.Maybe at the beach is not the best place for a laptop with all that sand ,but you'll look good anyway.

Answer 4

Best thing you can to is to visit your favourite mobile phone carrier company and ask them. What you are looking for comes in all shapes and favours.

Here (in Switzerland) I use what my carrier calls Swisscom Unlimited. It is a PCI Card that I plug into my laptop and connects me to the internet using whatever mobile phone networks is available (always trying to get the fastest possible connection).

Answer 5

You will need a card from Sprint or AT&T or one of the many internet access card providers. Your laptop should have a slot for the card when you buy it.