Whats the difference between wi-fi and mobile broadband?

Question

I want a laptop that i can access anywhere, which i think would b the mobile broadband, but do u get a signal in Greece with this? as i go there regularly but i also want to know what i need to have to have wireless connection for example if i just have a laptop with wireless capabilities with nothing else can i connect to the internet in wi-fi hot spots like in cafes etc? or do i need to purchase something

Answer 1

You're talking about two different types of technology here.

Mobile broadband is broadband internet delivered over a mobile (cell) phone network (GSM or 3G). With a mobile broadband adapter and subscription, you'll be able to get broadband access wherever there is mobile phone coverage.

Wi-Fi is the technology used for LOCAL wireless networks, typically over distances of less than a hundred metres. This is the kind of network you would use in your home (or in a cafe with Wi-Fi hotspot) in order to share a wired internet connection with multiple computers.

Obviously, once you move maybe 20 or 50 metres away from the hotspot, you lose your internet connection.

If your laptop has wireless capability, you'll be able to connect to Wi-Fi hotspots and get internet access there. If you want to roam around and get internet access AWAY from those hotspots, you'll need a mobile broadband subscription and will need to purchase a mobile broadband adapter too.

Answer 2

as long as ur phone has wireless capabilities then it will connect to wi fi

Answer 3

The biggest key difference between the two is that Mobile broadband is provided by a cellular provider like T-Mobile, AT&T, or Sprint.  So if you don't have coverage in Greece, you don't have internet.

WiFi is short for Wireless Fidelity and is just jargon for ANY type of 802.11 network.  (In normal speak, it just defines how to get internet over your wireless network card or airport.)  Most modern laptop come WiFi ready.  It's your best bet if you're traveling a lot as every coffee shop in the world (nearly!) has WiFi now.  ...plus almost every apartment.  You can find it somewhere.  I used it extensively in Paris.

Hope this helps explain it.

Take care,

Chad.

Answer 4

Get any laptop that has built in WiFi, and then think about the Sprint BlackBerry 8830 as your global solution for internet access:

http://www.evdoinfo.com/global

http://www.evdoinfo.com/content/view/205...

Answer 5

If you have a laptop with wireless than you can connect to wifi in cafes yes, if you would like access anywhere then you need a wireless network card from a company that is both the states and Greece. You could ask AT&T they might have it over there with O2 but not sure. Some companies have USB versions and cards that slide into a slot on the side of your computer (if you have one)