Wireless Internet Access - Providers and Wireless Services

Several forms of wireless Internet service exist, based on Wi-Fi, WiMax, cellular and satelite technologies. See what advantages each of these services offer and how they compare.

The term mobile broadband refers to high-speed wireless Internet connections and services designed to be used from arbitrary locations. Mobile broadband technologies include EV-DO, HSPA, WiMax and LTE. Beside phones, Internet and network access using these technologies is increasingly being incorporated into laptop computers, automobiles and public transportation.

Fixed wireless broadband is a type of high-speed Internet access where connections to service providers use radio signals rather than cables. Several different forms of fixed wireless broadband are available to residential and business customers.

WiMax is the industry term for a standard form of wireless broadband networking. WiMax is designed to support long-distance wireless connectivity to the Internet in areas not serviced by cable or DSL.

WiMax and LTE are the two emerging technologies for high-speed mobile broadband Internet service. Both WiMax and LTE appear to have similar goals for enabling worldwide wireless data network connectivity for cell phones, laptops and other computing devices. What are the differences between WiMax and LTE for wireless networking?

A WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider) offers public wireless network services. WISPs often install wireless hotspots that provide Internet access and local printer access to mobile computers.

Learn more about the network capabilities of cell phones, pagers, and other wireless Internet devices including their relationship to technologies like WAP and WML.