What is mobile internet?

The terms 'mobile internet', 'mobile broadband' and '3G' refer to the provision of internet connections using mobile phone networks. Generally speaking, the only other types of broadband widely available are ADSL (phone line) or cable (fibre-optic) broadband.

Compare the latest mobile internet deals at uSwitch now.

Mobile broadband uses mobile phone networks as opposed to copper phone or fibre-optic cable lines, and can be accessed by any mobile device or any computer with a USB port. No routers, cables or telephone lines are needed.

Mobile internet is taking over from home broadband in much the same way as mobile phones took over from home phones in the 1990s. Greater flexibility and mobility are the key factors fuelling the growth of mobile broadband. And with increasingly sophisticated technology, mobile broadband is on course to replace traditional, phone-line based mediums soon.

Mobile internet can be accessed via:

• Mobile phones
• Data cards
• Dongles (USB modems)
• USB sticks
• Broadband-embedded laptops
• MiFi units

While mobile USB dongles provide more flexibility in terms of use, increasing numbers of consumers are choosing laptops with mobile broadband built-in. These are available on contract deals with most mobile internet providers.

For more information on the technical workings of mobile broadband, see our mobile broadband guide page.

Compare the best-selling broadband and free laptop deals at uSwitch now.

Mobile Internet providers:

• Vodafone mobile broadband
• T Mobile broadband
• Three mobile broadband
• O2 mobile broadband
• Orange mobile broadband

More questions about mobile internet?

Learn more and compare the best mobile internet packages here, or read our What is a Mobile Dongle? and What is 3G? uSwitch guides.