What can you do with Mobile Broadband?

Mobile broadband services provide Internet access to laptops, PDAs, BlackBerrys and Smartphones. Most offer 2G and 3G network support which provides a speed faster than dial–up, but not as fast as what you are used to through your cable or Ethernet connection.

Mobile Broadband services are not designed to replace your standard ISP, but are intended for low demand mobile use.

So, what can you do through a Mobile Broadband Connection?

Check Email – Send and receive email through your personal or corporate email accounts.

Surf the Internet – Access the Internet and visit your favorite sites in their full versions.

Access your Intranet – Most services can help you connect to your corporate Intranet through a secure connection, so you can work while you are on the road.

Connect to Wi–Fi HotSpots – Larger providers host numerous hotspots in popular travel destinations and franchises like Starbucks or FedEx Kinko’s, so you can get a more traditional, fast connection should you need it.

What are Mobile Broadbands Limitations?

Mobile broadband services are not yet capable of replacing your ISP. Most services restrict or limit large data exchanges, such as streaming audio or video, P2P file sharing, multiple JPEG uploads, VoIP and automated feeds.

In this site, you’ll find articles related to Mobile Broadband Services, as well as comprehensive reviews and a side–by–side comparison to help you make an informed decision on which service is right for your wireless broadband needs. At TopTenREVIEWS — We do the research so you don’t have to.™

What to Look for in a Mobile Broadband Service

Almost all mobile broadband services charge about the same monthly rate, so coverage is usually the deciding factor on which service is best to suit your needs. Many also require that you have a voice plan with them as well, so that may also determine which service you select.

In terms of coverage, look for a service that provides high quality connections where you need them most, whether that is in the city you live in or the cities you travel to often. It is also helpful if the service provides Wi–Fi access in convenient locations should you need a fast connection.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate Mobile Broadband Services.

• Price/Fees – We looked at the monthly rate for unlimited broadband access for business accounts as our comparison rate, but we also considered the price for personal accounts and non–voice customer pricing and fees.
• Coverage – The best mobile broadband services provide coverage in high population areas and major airports. Some also offer Wi–Fi connections in airports and hotels and roaming access.
• Help/Support – Providers should support several contact methods including by telephone and email. They ought to also post helpful information online like FAQs, tutorials, device manuals and other supportive documentation.

For the best coast–to–coast coverage, see Cingular/ AT & T .