Wireless Broadband – Internet on the Go

What is Wireless Broadband Internet?

Wireless broadband is a type of Internet connection that allows you to go online wherever there is a "hot spot". As the name denotes, no wires are required to connect to the Internet when using wireless connection; this type of technology utilizes radio signals to allow you to access the Internet.

In order to connect to the Internet without wires, your device must have a wireless network card. The term "card" is more suitable to computers like laptops and desktops. For smartphones, a term "chip" is used more often. You must also find an area that has an available hot spot, so that your WiFi capable device can locate the signal and connect to the Internet.

The Origination of Wireless Broadband Internet

Even though wireless network connections have been used back in early 1970-es, the WiFi as we know it today got its first ground in 1991. In that year NCR Corporation together with AT&T invented the precursor to 802.11, meant to be used for cashier systems. The first version of the 802.11 protocol was released in 1997, and provided up to 2 Mbps link speeds. The development continued with 802.11a, then 802.11b allowing speeds of 11 Mbps (1999). It continued with 802.11g, 802.11n, and 802.11ac as the latest approved standard being in wide use. There are more standards developed for other reasons which we'll just leave on a side for now.

AT&T Wireless Internet was developed after DSL and cable modem Internet in order to make AT&T High Speed Internet available to more users. Before wireless Internet was introduced, people in rural areas did not have access to Internet technology because they could not be reached by DSL or cable Internet. With the development of AT&T Wireless Internet, people were able to mount a small dish pointed at transmitters on the roof of their home in order to gain access to the Internet.

Users can gain access to either licensed or unlicensed types of wireless Internet connections. Licensed connections are secure and private, and often require a password and user name before you can access it. However, the more common type of wireless broadband uses unlicensed connections, because these cost much less. Licensed connections need to be registered, thereby causing expenses for the owner and the user. Unlicensed connections, on the other hand, are cheaper and more accessible, but tend to encounter more interference.

Typically, there has to be a clear line of sight between your dish and the transmitter to effectively establish a wireless Internet connection. But those who cannot establish a clear line of sight have the option of using multiple hubs to repeat the signals.

Ways to Use AT&T Wireless Internet

Wireless Internet connection that AT&T offers can be used in several ways. We'll list them here in order to evade any confusion:

• Wi-Fi Internet via AT&T Wi-Fi Hot Spots – Can be used by Wi-Fi capable devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers, laptops in most cases.
• AT&T Internet Air – Service for areas that cannot get wired Internet.
• Connected Car – Wireless Internet for cars.

The Advantages of Wireless Broadband

Wireless Internet connections are quite reliable, as most providers promise 99% reliability. Data transfer is also fast with AT&T Wireless Internet, and the best part about it is that you don't have to use wires! AT&T Wireless Broadband is also perfect for those who travel or move frequently, because wireless Internet can be accessed from any hot spot.

When you order AT&T Internet service, you will receive complimentary Wi-Fi AT&T Wireless Internet access at over 30,000 hot spots nationwide. AT&T High Speed Internet is the leading Internet Service Provider in the nation. Check out current AT&T Internet Deals for packages with complimentary Wi-Fi access.

If you are not using any of AT&T's services, there is still a benefit of choosing AT&T Wireless Internet as you only need to pay a small one-time fee, unlike other services that require a monthly commitment.

The Disadvantages of Wireless Broadband

The technology is based on radio signals, which makes wireless connection highly susceptible to interference with other signals, and some types of obstruction.

Another downside to using wireless Internet is that its range may be limited, and that its signal is weaker as you move away from it.

Security is an issue for wireless networks as the signal can be modified or "listened to" (eavesdropping). This may not be as prevalent as some would think as networks are protected by authentication mechanisms. Still, wireless networks can be compromised.