What exactly do I need to have a fully functionning broadband on my laptop? ?

Question

I would like to equip my laptop with broadband. I want it be be totally independent from the broadband at home, so that it`s future proof. I`ll be able to use it on the move or at university then.

I`ve got a few options, but I`m not too sure. Do I need a wireless Router? Will that be necessary? What kind of broadband am I looking for? Is it USB or mini card?

I honestly do not know much about this at the moment. I do need some advice/clarifications.

I`m also interested in the fingerprinting device. What exactly is it? How do I use it? Is it suitable for students at university?

I`m more than willing to give 10 points to any person here, whose answer is as straight-forward as possible.

Answer 1

If you want to use WiFi then you will need a wireless adapter and need to be within range of a suitable wireless network access point that you have permissions to access.

An alternative is one of the mobile phone company broadband USB devices that will allow you to connect to your account as long as you are in their coverage area. These tend to be a bit slower and a bit more expensive than WiFi setups though.

Answer 2

To go wireless then yes you will need a wireless router, if you want a fast one get a wireless N router.  

For your laptop you will need either usb stick or PCMCIA wireless card like these  http://www.novatech.co.uk/novatech/produ...

Note that most cards are wireless G but some are 54mbps and 108mbps, you'd be better off with the 108mbps.  However, if you are going to buy a wireless N router, you are better off buying a wireless N PCMCIA Card/usb stick

Either way you will need wireless hotspots with open security when your out and about.  Also remember than wireless doesn't have a good range.

Finger printing device I'm not sure about, try wiki.

Answer 3

To me, when you say "independent from broadband at home", then what you need is mobile broadband that uses cellular data network.

Check these links for more information:

http://www.EVDOinfo.com/what

http://www.EVDOinfo.com/easy

Answer 4

If your laptop has an ethernet port, most do, then your already broadband enabled. Your ethernet port runs at either 100Mb or 1000Mb which is faster than 6Mb that a cable moden supplies. You can also connect with a wireless connection. Most new notebooks have them pre-installed. If you dont have one, you can buy one for around $50. Wireless runs at 54Mb. Again much faster than either cable or dsl broadband. Either way, you will need an access point to connect to which is completely seperate from your notebook.