What You Need to Know When Choosing a Mobile Broadband Provider
A few years ago, mobile professionals and corporate executives were the only real users of mobile broadband services, since having constant Internet access could allow work to be done from nearly anywhere. As we all know, mobile Internet use has exploded and access is now just as common (and necessary) for students and parents with busy schedules as it is for the high-powered business types.
Choosing a mobile broadband provider can be a little intimidating. With so many factors to consider, it's hard to know which option will meet your needs without breaking the bank.
Start Simple
Not only are there many different broadband providers, there are also many different plans, each with different cost, contact length, and support options. Making a list of your very specific needs will go a long way toward narrowing the playing field of potential mobile broadband contenders. For example, several years ago, laptop computers were the only mobile broadband users, but today's mobile broadband is used by many more devices, including smartphones and tablets. Your choice of mobile broadband will depend largely on how you plan to use it.
Computers - For using your computer on the go, wireless hotspots or USB modems/aircards are your best bet. USB modems and aircards are available from most major wireless providers and connect to the Internet instantaneously when plugged in to the computer's USB port. Wireless hotspots are a newer and even more convenient option, creating a portable Wi-Fi network that can support multiple devices at once. Basically, rather than just connecting just your laptop to the Internet, a hotspot can provide a connection for your laptop, phone, tablet, and a friend's computer, all from the same portable device.
Smartphones - Smartphones will typically have access to mobile broadband through whatever wireless provider delivers the service, but most can easily connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi whenever it's available in order to reduce hefty data transfers over the wireless provider's network.
Tablets - Depending on whether or not the tablet was purchased in conjunction with a data plan from a wireless provider, Wi-Fi connectivity needs will vary. If the tablet isn't affiliated with a wireless service, a mobile hotspot is the best way to make sure it always has a usable Internet connection.
As you continue your search, take these four elements into consideration when evaluating mobile broadband services with specific providers:
Mobile Broadband Services: What to Look For
Once you've narrowed down your needs, you can start comparing apples to apples. The next step is doing some preliminary research on websites of different providers (http://mobile-broadband.t-mobile.com/ is a great place to start).
Network Coverage
Although availability of mobile broadband has expanded tremendously in the past several years, pay special attention to coverage maps and note how your current city and any other cities you frequently visit fare. If coverage in your key areas looks questionable, move on to the next provider.
Price vs. Fees
Obviously, mobile broadband from any carrier will come at a price. While these are generally relatively comparable, some major differences come in the fine print. Be sure to investigate overage and other fees, like activation, cost of network cards, and Early Termination. Even a plan that looks promising on the front end can cost a pretty penny if extra fees come into play.
Network Speed
A potential mobile broadband provider should be able to provide you with typical download and upload data transfer rates. If instant gratification is an important factor for you, place special emphasis on finding a provider with a fast network speed.
Data Network Reliability
Simply put, if a data network isn't available when you need it, none of its other features matter very much. Online reviews are a good way to gauge data network reliability, but take these reviews with a grain of salt. All networks will have both outstanding and terrible customer comments. Seeking recommendations from friends and family is another great and reliable option.
Customer Support
If you're in a jam, you'll want to be able to contact your broadband provider via as many channels as possible, so understanding their support policy is key. Most should be contactable by phone or email, but the best providers will have FAQs, tutorials, device manuals and other supportive documentation available on their website or on an affiliate site. Most importantly, when you need to contact them, their representatives must be knowledgeable and responsive to your needs.
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