Making the Switch to Mobile 4G

The decision of how to link in to the World Wide Web these days appears simple. Everyone and their mother seems to be outfitted with a solid cable broadband connection and a wireless router, leading to the concept of Internet "leeching." Especially for apartment dwellers, all it takes to find service is a quick review of the wifi networks in range of your computer. It’s likely that at least one of your unknowing neighbors has failed to password encrypt his router, allowing you to Google to your heart’s content for the low cost of nothing. In a pinch, those with wifi capable cell phones or iPods can repeat this process wherever they are; indeed, wireless Internet is so ubiquitous now that such practices have become second nature for the average user.

There’s one place where the Internet leeching tactic isn’t viable: on the road. Commuting and traveling have become as big a part of any urbanite’s daily schedule as surfing the web has. So much time is wasted sitting in traffic, on crowded public transportation, or in the airport that at this point it seems natural. While long commutes are a necessary evil for the average employee, there’s no reason that all that time need be squandered. Instead of spending an hour or so swearing at the world, be constructive with the help of a mobile broadband device.

Of course, unless you can afford both wired and mobile Internet systems, making the switch to 4G will require some sacrifices on your part. For example, if you don’t already own a laptop or Internet-capable phone you’ll have to invest in one (though who doesn’t own a laptop now). Additionally, downloading all those movies and songs you love is going to be nigh impossible or at least more expensive, since most mobile plans don’t include unlimited data transmission. This makes 4G and the like more suitable for those who most often log on for email, brief web browsing, and other data-light functions. An additional downside is that, just like with most cell phones, you’ll be required to purchase a year or two-year plan.

However, there is plenty of upside to opting for a mobile broadband choice. For one thing, despite the low cost of most fixed wire providers today, mobile Internet may save you money. That’s due to the fact that logging on with a wireless dongle doesn’t force you to pay line rental rates or other associated fees. And while many of the better plans do require a contractual commitment, there are pay-as-you-go options available to suit your level of use. Speed of connection need not be a factor with 4G; new Wimax technologies have evolved the point where the difference between wire and wireless is negligible. And clearly the mobility that wireless allows you is unparalleled by any fixed system.

Inevitably, you’re going to have to make the hard decision which tech to go with. Depending on what you use the web for, the choice may be clear. Still, for the average commuter, a wireless option can save you time and make that daily commute far more worthwhile.

Find more information on making the switch at clearinternetnewyork.net. All the details are available at www.clearinternet-merced.net.