I'm looking for a reasonable wireless Internet plan that will not break the bank.
2007/03/09 09:40:02
I have recently purchased a Sony Vaio Laptop (latest release) with Windows Vista. The laptop has a built in wireless card and I am looking for a reasonable wireless plan that will not break the bank. I use the laptop whilst out and about for work and also at home for general Internet browsing. Do you have any suggestions as to a provider that could meet my needs but not break my bank?
-- Submitted by: Lynn
Answer by:
Jeremy Roche
You've got quite a few options to get online wirelessly.
For home use you could get an ADSL or cable service and use a wireless router to allow you to connect wirelessly around the house. But to get your laptop online when you're out and about, you'll need a mobile broadband or wireless internet provider. The big players in Australia are Telstra, Optus, 3, Vodafone, Unwired and iBurst.
Ask yourself some questions first before signing up:
- Where do I intend to connect to the Internet?
- How much data, on average, will I use each month?
- Is this intended to be my home Internet connection, too?
- What connectivity does my laptop offer (eg. Bluetooth, USB, ExpressCard)?
- What download speeds will I be comfortable with?
- How much am I prepared to pay per month?
ISPs offer vastly different coverage areas, hardware packages, customer service, download speeds, download quotas and roaming charges -- doing your homework and shopping around will get you the best deal for your needs.
Our reviews of the latest wireless broadband services from 3, Telstra and Vodafone are a good place to start. Unwired and iBurst also offer wireless plans, but only in metro areas.
You can get monthly accounts or pay-as-you-go for wireless hotspots from companies like Starbucks and Azure resellers, but these aren't as flexible and you need to be in the vicinity of one.
You could also use a mobile phone to connect your laptop to the internet wherever you are, although check you're getting the best value by considering added cost of another device (and plan). The recent CNET.com.au Editors' Choice Award winning Palm Treo 750 is a good choice if you choose to go down this path.
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Praveen
06/05/2008 02:58 AM
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chrisieminshaw
01/07/2008 07:10 PM
I am going to Canada and ther USA for 6 weeks and would like to use wrieless internet. What plans are their for overseas travel and what is the cost
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sk76
04/09/2008 01:59 PM
Im with 3 and so far so good but we have moved address and there is no 3g coverage there only roaming with telstra which cost $1.65 per mb, i know its terrible, so im stuck with $49 wireless internet contract that i have to pay every month that doesnt work, 3 have told me i need to pay $400 exit fees so im very angry, buttom line is DONT SIGN ANY CONTRACT WITH 3, coverage isnt every especially if your going to move.
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