| Mobile Internet devices include smartphones, USB | | | | device and the service separately. Some |
| connect sticks, and computers. Each of these will | | | | computer manufacturers offer these devices at a |
| allow an individual to surf the Web at any time | | | | very low cost when other products are |
| and from locations worldwide. There is a product | | | | purchased at the same time. |
| and method of access for every budget. | | | | The most expensive single investment entails a |
| Many cell phones sold unlocked or by carriers | | | | user buying a laptop computer that has an |
| have the built-in ability to access the Web. These | | | | integrated wireless card. Though this computer is |
| phones range in price from those that are free | | | | more expensive than most cell phones, USB |
| with a limited term contract to those that cost | | | | connect sticks, and netbooks, it will most likely |
| several hundred dollars. The owner of this type of | | | | include applications that the other devices do not. |
| phone can either access the Web using the Wi-Fi | | | | These products frequently contain word |
| capabilities of the device or subscribe to a carrier | | | | processing and accounting software packages |
| data plan. Plans range from those that include only | | | | that are more dynamic than the versions included |
| a small amount of data access per month to | | | | in either smartphones or netbooks. |
| those that allow unlimited access. | | | | Individuals should first determine which of the |
| Another low-cost option is to purchase a USB | | | | current mobile Internet devices is most suitable |
| connect stick. This small device plugs in the USB | | | | for their needs, then decide how they want to |
| port of a desktop or laptop computer and | | | | access the Web. Accessing open wireless |
| provides the owner with Web access within a | | | | networks, Wi-Fi hot spots, and networks in other |
| designated coverage area. The cost of these | | | | places are all possibilities. Signals from open |
| sticks is around $50 and individuals can get either | | | | networks may be available within the |
| Wi-Fi access or can subscribe to a data plan to | | | | neighborhood, but these are not the most secure |
| get 3G coverage. Some carriers have begun | | | | method of sending and receiving data. |
| offering these devices at a higher price without | | | | Having your own secure wireless network within |
| requiring that users commit to a contract. | | | | the home is the recommended alternative. Wi-Fi |
| These carriers and some computer | | | | hotspots can also be found in airports, book |
| manufacturers sell small laptop computers, often | | | | stores, campgrounds, and coffee shops. These |
| called netbooks, which contain built-in 3G and Wi-Fi. | | | | provide patrons with free or low-cost Web |
| A broadband modem is included in the computer | | | | access. Another option is to go to the local library |
| and users who enroll in a contract for data | | | | or university to see if they provide access to |
| service can receive this computer for a much | | | | individuals who use an authentication code. |
| lower price than if they were to purchase the | | | | |