Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of services we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Mobile Broadband Service.

Ratings

Price/ Fees

We looked at the price for unlimited broadband access for business accounts for our comparison, but 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 lower speed roaming access as well.

Help/Support

Providers should support numerous contact methods including by telephone and email. They should also post helpful information online like FAQs, tutorials, device manuals and other supportive documentation.

Access Price/ Fees

Voice Customer Price/ Month

This is the monthly rate for customers who also have a qualifying cell phone account with the mobile broadband service provider.

Non-voice Price/ Month

The monthly rate for mobile broadband customers who do not have a cell phone account with the service provider; however, many services require a voice account.

Non-business Price/ Month

This is the monthly price for individual consumers who do not have a business account with the provider.

Activation Fee

The one time fee required to initiate service.

Early Termination Fee/ Line

The fee charged to customers who do not maintain services for their entire contract.

Connection/Network Card

The cost of the pc card required for laptops to access mobile broadband connections.

Coverage

Cities (areas)

Generally, cities are considered areas with a population of 100,000 or more. Some services calculate metropolitan areas as one area.

Airports (Major/ International)

The number of airports where mobile broadband or Wi-Fi access is supported.

International Roaming Support

Some services provide access outside of the US, generally in popular travel destinations like Hong Kong, Rome, Paris and Amsterdam and on a few cruise lines.

Technical Help/Support

Telephone Support

Service should provide direct access to customer support by telephone or through a cell phone shortcut.

Email/ Online Form

Customers ought to be able to contact the company by email and receive a prompt and courteous reply.

Online Help/ Knowledgebase

It is useful if the company posts information online such as details about their services and devices.

Chat/ IM Support

Some services provide instant access to customer support through a chat service.

Tutorials/ How-To's

Online tutorials or how–to’s describing how to use specific services or devices are often posted for consumer education.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions are often posted with their answers to help customers solve common problems.

User Forums

Some services host a user forum, where customers can share ideas and comments about a particular service or product, often these forums are moderated by a customer service representative.

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