Computers and laptops are getting less and less expensive by the day, while offering more and more power, speed and options, following Moore’s law that infers that computers double in capacity and every 18 months. So for most users today, it is not the price of the computer that is cost prohibitive, but the price of interconnectivity.
Hardwired or Wifi
Many people still use their cable or phone connections to connect to the internet, especially if they are using desktop computers, but these plans are often very limited in capability. Home plans that are available for about $30 a month offer only 2.5 mb capacity.
For active users (just about everyone today), this just about covers email and some limited searching. Any downloads will eat up the bytes before the end of the month. Plans with real muscle will cost closer to $100 a month. For laptop users, the choice is a portable wifi, with similar options: $50 for 5 mb or $80 for 10mb.
Take Advantage of Portability
But luckily, laptops are portable, and public wireless access spots can be found in almost any location. Libraries, coffee shops, hotels, churches and many other venues can be used as wireless hotspots, if you only know where to find them. The secret is to use a Wifi Directory and keep a list of hotspots you can easily visit. Update it when you travel to different areas.
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Finding Hotspots
There are a number of directories that let you find the hotspots closest to the area you will be in:
- One of the most trusted sources for computer information in general, PC World also offers one of the most trusted hotspot locators on its website.
- Wifi Freespot supplies you with a list of hotel chains that offer free wireless. If you know of a hotel near you, you can look it up and see if you can access their hotspot. Of course, if you are staying at a hotel, you can automatically use their wireless, even if it requires a code to access.
- Hotspot Location is probably the easiest to use, but doesn’t come up with all of the hotspots that I know to exist in a given areas.
- Boingo Wifi Hotspot Directory gives you all the local hotspots when you punch in a zip code. Easy and reliable.
The shot in the dark method
Some businesses are known for offering wifi access to their customers (or even, by default, anyone parked in their parking lot). Normally, if you know there is a Starbucks or McDonald’s in the area, chances are you will find connectivity. The local library is always an option, and you can sit inside without having to feel compelled to buy a coffee or eat a Big Mac.
Of course, library hours are a big limitation; most are only open in the evenings one or two nights a week. As mentioned previously, large hotel chains always offer wifi access, and in many cases, they do not bother to secure it with a code. They do not lose any money when someone who isn’t a guest uses it, but many hotels like to make it a privilege of staying.
With laptops and notepads now available for less than $500, it seems almost criminal to have to pay the equivalent of a new one every six months in wifi access fees. With a little imagination and travel, you can have unlimited access for free; although, unless you live next door to a Starbucks, you do give up the comfort of home.
One advantage of WiFi hotspots is the ability to do a free people search instantly. You can look up the work history of a possible employee who just called, or find out if that woman who gave you her number truly is single.
