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 capabilities.

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 transmitted by mobile phone network masts. Thus, users are empowered to get online wherever there is a mobile phone signal.

You can access mobile internet by simply 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 an industry-wide 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
• Three mobile internet
• O2 mobile internet
• Orange 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 businesspeople 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 also made roaming data charges cheaper than ever, bringing mobile internet within reach of travellers all over the continent.

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.

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