Mobile internet

Mobile internet explained

Mobile internet refers to using mobile phone networks to get online, either through a mobile internet dongle, a MiFi unit or with a laptop with built-in mobile internet access.

Unlike wireless internet, which allows people to surf the web in areas designated as hotspots, mobile internet users can get online wherever they are, provided they are within range of the thousands of mobile phone masts located around the UK.

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How does mobile internet access work?

Mobile internet providers are able to offer their service by harnessing the 3G signals given off by mobile phone telephone network masts. Thus, users are able to get online wherever there is a mobile phone signal.

You can access mobile internet simply by plugging a mobile internet dongle into the USB port of your laptop or your home computer or turning on your MiFi. Alternatively, most mobile internet providers now offer laptops with mobile internet built-in. These come pre-installed with a SIM card and are available on a range of contract deals.

Mobile internet providers

The enormous growth in demand for mobile internet has seen a rush to capitalise on this massive market. As a result, most major UK telecommunications firms now offer mobile internet services, including:

• T Mobile mobile internet
• 3 mobile internet
• O2 mobile internet
• Orange mobile internet
• Virgin Mobile mobile internet
• Vodafone mobile internet

Who is mobile internet suitable for?

Mobile internet is an essential service for anyone who needs to get online on-the-go and is vital for businessmen who need to keep up to date with their e-mails. But it’s also useful to different types of people for a range of other reasons, too.

Students. Pay as you go deals and short term contracts let students secure mobile internet access for short periods. This means that they don’t end up paying for a home broadband product which they may only use during term time.

Travellers. Most mobile internet providers also have networks throughout Europe. This means that travellers can get online wherever they are in the EU and brings an end to the days of seeking out an internet café in an unfamiliar location.

EU rulings have made roaming data charges cheaper than ever, bringing mobile internet within reach of travellers everywhere.

Cost-conscious consumers: Pay as you go and one month mobile internet deals are very keenly priced. Furthermore, with no landline rental and connection charge to pay, some serious savings can be made.

Light internet users: If you’re the sort of person who only uses the internet to check your e-mails and look up vital information, mobile internet is ideal. Simply choose a pay as you go deal and add credit as and when you need it.

Compare cheap mobile internet deals here cheap mobile broadband.

Mobile internet packages

Mobile internet providers offer packages to suit all usage requirements and budgets. Here we take a look at some of the best:

Vodafone’s mobile internet 6-month deal, for instance, is a terrific offer for students. For £15, it offers you 3GB of usage and a mobile internet connection of up to 7.2Mb.

Meanwhile, T-Mobile’s Mobile Broadband Laptop deals are superb for anyone who is thinking of investing in a portable computer but who wants to spread their payments. For £35 per month, not only can they get a cutting-edge laptop, but they are also get a mobile internet dongle and a generous monthly usage limit as well.

O2’s business mobile internet service is ideal for businessmen and is available in 3GB or 9GB usage options. To facilitate remote working, the packages include features such as VPN and firewall management.

Light users will appreciate the pay as you go mobile internet deal from 3. This stands out for its cheap £19.99 price point for the dongle and the option to add additional usage just £10 per GB.

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