Mobile broadband and WiFi HotSpots

Mobile broadband packages are becoming more competitive on a monthly basis, and providers are always throwing in new sweeteners to attract customers.

WiFi Hotspots

O2 were one of the first providers to offer free wireless in thousands of hotspots across the UK. This was perfect for users who spend time in coffee shops, public places, or travel locations and don’t want to use up their inclusive allowance. Other providers followed suit and now wireless hotspots are available from nearly all mobile phone providers.

The technologies behind the two types of wireless access are different. With mobile broadband (3G mobile internet), it is provided over mobile phone networks. Wireless broadband and WiFi hotspots do not run over mobile phone networks, but rather via a cable or ADSL connection and a wireless router.

Which outlets offer WiFi hotspots?

Retailers and restaurants with a free WiFi service include Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoons, McDonalds, Pret a Manger, Starbucks, Walkabout pubs and branches of Slug and Lettuce.

Finding a WiFi hotspot

A great way of locating free Wifi is by download an app for your smartphone, such as WifiZone@UK's offering. This will use GPS and built-in maps to direct you right to it.

There are also a number of great sites that offer directories. Perhaps the best of these is the site operated by the Wireless Broadband Alliance, though.

To find out there difference between mobile and home broadband see our home vs mobile broadband page where we discuss the differences between home and mobile broadband as well as the pros and cons of each.

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