Wireless

Wireless broadband options are available from all the major broadband service providers like AOL, BT, Sky, Talk Talk, Tiscali etc. Often it comes at no extra cost, though this is not always the case, so we strongly advise checking using the Simplifydigital smart search service. If you choose the wireless broadband option, the broadband provider will send you a wireless router, rather than a standard wired modem. This may be free with a new subscription or cost about £30. These are normally fairly basic pieces of kit and may suffer from a limited range (so that you can't get a wireless connection at the top of your house for example). If they don't work for you, you can easily buy a higher spec alternative router for approx £35-£40. The wireless routers are easy to set up. They plug into your telephone wall socket, and will come with easy set-up instructions.Wireless broadband is not to be confused with mobile broadband. To be more accurate, the normal definition of wireless broadband is a standard home broadband service delivered into your home via a wireless router, which allows you to connect to the internet without plugging your laptop into a wired internet connection. So, not surprisingly, wireless broadband connections are much more popular for people with laptops than bulky PCs as it allows you to connect to the internet wherever you are in the home. It also means that more one than one person in your home can connect to the internet at the same time, which is clearly a huge benefit for family broadband users.
One watch out
In order for the wireless broadband connection to work, your laptop will need a 'wireless network card' a feature that is included in the majority of new laptops and PC's. Just look for the description 'Wi-Fi' or 'Wireless Enabled' in the product features. If a wireless network card is not already fitted, you can simply buy one that slots into your PC. They usually cost around 15