ACCESSIBILITY - THE DANGER ZONES

When dealing with laptops, mobility is key. After all, that’s what they’re designed for. When you can’t access the internet, laptop computers aren’t very useful unless you’re working on documents saved to your computer.

Finding A Good Provider
We’ve all had experience with phone companies and Internet providers, some are simply better than others. They do a better job at connecting you to their network and keeping you there. My personal choices are FON WiFi and Boingo Wireless.

- FON WIFI
FON WiFI offers FREE wifi connection wherever you go. Free forever: no contracts, no fees, no special tricks. All you have to do is purchase the FON wiFi router for your laptop (which you would need to buy anyway, if you want to connect to a modem) which is very easy to setup and install and is reasonably priced. All it does is allow you to connect all of your wireless devices to your broadband internet connection. Once you set it all up, you will have instant access to thousands of WiFi hotspots worldwide.

- Boingo Wireless
For the low rate of $21.95 per month, you have access to thousands of wireless hotspots throughout the United States. If you travel abroad or live elsewhere, then sign up for Boingo Global and gain access to HUNDREDS of thousands of hotspots all across the world. Boingo also offers a second month free of charge when you sign up with them.

Avoiding Low Signal Areas
Things like overpasses and even tree branches can block a good signal, but luckily there are a number of things that you can do.

1. Buy a fancy doodah to better your chances at getting reception.
2. Only travel in areas where there’s a good bit of visible sky and a WiFi tower nearby.
3. Live close to a University and hitch a connection from them.

Also avoid areas with high hills or mountains, as these can easily block a connection signal.

Attachments to Increase Accessibility
- Wireless USB Network Adapter
A wireless USB network adapter will allow for your personal notebook computer to receive a constant signal when you’re around the house. It can connect to the standard USB port found on your laptop and it can sit anywhere in the house to broadcast the signal. Simply connect it to the modem and you’re good to go.

- Wireless Laptop Antenna
An antenna designed for connecting to notebook computers in order to extend the range of the wireless card. Antennas will help you easily connect to Wi-Fi hotspots, access points, and any wireless network. It is perfect for anyone with a portable computer and an antenna will allow you have a steady connection when using public hotspots at airports, coffee shops, truck stops, libraries or anywhere Wi-Fi is accessible.