What is a Mobile Broadband Hotspot?

These days, it is very popular to work in public places. Evidence of this trend can be found in any coffee shop or food court, where armies of people camp out with their lattes and laptops. Sipping and typing at the same time is just one example of how multi-tasking has become a very important skill in today’s fast-paced world. In order for this to be possible, certain tools are required as well, such as a reliable high-speed Internet connection. This is why people are usually found in concentrated areas, where a Wi-Fi network is available.

Nowadays, many restaurants, cafes, airports, hotels, campuses, libraries, train stations, and other public places are equipped with wireless Internet hotspots that let you access the Internet (and get work done) on the go. A similar tool to the localized Wi-Fi network is mobile broadband. However, these are two distinct technologies that should not be confused. The latter is a fully wireless service that is primarily accessed from smart phones (but can also be used with a computer) and allows for an even wider range of movement than Wi-Fi.

With the help of powerful towers akin to those used to transmit regular cell phone signals, mobile broadband networks provide coverage areas that can span areas as large as an entire city. For this reason, the word "hotspot" does not really apply to this newer technology. The term hotspot implies an easily defined and relatively small area of connectivity, such as is provided by Wi-Fi technology. With mobile broadband, the entire city can be thought of as one giant hotspot. This assures that you will always be able to get online, no matter where you go (which, as you know, is not the case with Wi-Fi service).

In practical terms, mobile broadband serves a different purpose than Wi-Fi hotspots and does not cater directly to the people who are huddled in coffee shops all day long. In fact, it is potentially useful to a much broader dynamic and thus may one day put Wi-Fi out of business altogether. After all, a network that covers only 100 meters ultimately just cannot compete with one that is able to provide the same high-speed connections for up to 30 miles. In places where two such networks overlap, it is much easier to log onto the larger one since you know you will be able to stay connected even if you move to a different location. With the smaller network, there is no guarantee that your service will not be interrupted.

Another way in which Wi-Fi is inferior to its more mobile cousin is that it is less secure. If you have a private Wi-Fi network, it is not only easy for hackers to "steal" service that you are paying for, but they can also steal other information and private data. With regards to this, the mobile alternative is a much safer service to use, since you are not sharing your connection with anyone else. You also have the option of adding on special security features if need be.

Find out how you can get online on the go by contacting a clearwirelessinternet provider today!