I finally have a question

Question

OK, how can I say this....
You know I needed an internet connection and I did not want to have to use a "phone's" keypad because I have fat fingers. So, I got a USB thing from Sierra Wireless and signed up with ATT (big mistake but anyway) for internet on my macbookpro.
It seems like the internet providers or computer retailers like mac would have this as an option? Why do they not have data cards or USB things that tap into the internet somewhere out there. is it because all that can be used are the "waves" that the wireless companies already have for cell phones?
Comcast has a wireless internet service but I am not sure how that works.
it just seems like such a great invention--to be able to use your notebook anywhere (or most places) to get on the internet.
Yours,
Kooler
<Edited by Moderator>

Answer 1

Kooler,
The only type of "anywhere" internet connection is via a mobile (cellular) device. In other words, a phone. And with this type of connection, "anywhere" is defined as anywhere your cellular provider has coverage.
The Sierra Wireless device you have is really nothing more than a cellular phone, but one that is dedicated to providing only a data connection to the ATT network. In this regard, it acts as a modem. Many otherwise "normal" cell phones will also provide this same connectivity. For example, I use my Sprint phone as a modem with my Macbook Pro. Wherever I have Sprint coverage, I also have a broadband connection to the internet. In the case of Sprint, using your regular phone as a modem- with unlimited data- is less than what one pays for having the same with a connection card like you have. The speeds are the same.
Comcast provides cable broadband service, like other cable companies. In many cases, they will also provide a wireless router to set up a network in your home. This is what they call "wireless internet."
One technology that may come closer to what your considering is "WiMax." This is an updated version of the current wireless standards (802.11x) that will allow providers to broadcast a wireless network over an area the size of a city or county. Many cities already provide wireless internet, free of charge, in their downtown areas by using multiple 802.11x wireless devices scattered around the coverage area. WiMax takes this further by greatly increasing the range and speed, using only one or two devices (instead of many). Instead of covering just the "downtown" area, the entire city or county can be covered. We're still waiting for this to be deployed, although Intel is already shipping chipsets that include WiMax built-in.
For now, your best bet is a cellular data connection, like what you already have.
Scott