Wireless Internet FAQs
What is 3G Internet?
Third-generation Internet, or 3G, is a type of wireless Internet provided by most cell phone companies. 3G Internet lets you surf the Internet and check e-mails on the go. Speeds aren’t as fast as you’ll get with a 4G or broadband connection, but are usually sufficient for basic web browsing.
What is 4G Internet?
Fourth-generation Internet, or 4G, is a high-speed wireless Internet service offered by leading Internet companies and cell phone providers. CLEAR launched the first 4G mobile Internet service in the United States. Providers of 4G say it delivers broadband speed on the go, with speeds exceeding 10 Mbps. Wireless-ready devices like laptops, cell phones, netbooks and gaming consoles can connect to 4G Internet in designated coverage areas. 4G is said to be 4x faster than 3G Internet.
What is mobile broadband?
Mobile broadband is a wireless Internet technology that allows you to connect to the Internet from almost anywhere – with speeds similar to what you can expect from a home broadband connection.
What is WiMAX?
Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, also known as WiMAX, is a wireless technology that delivers mobile internet at broadband speeds. WiMAX coverage can span miles, so users can stay connected to the Internet as they travel across entire cities. Most WiMAX networks promise 4G speeds, which allow users to stream videos, download large files and much more. The two largest WiMAX providers in the U.S. are CLEAR Internet and Sprint.
What is LTE?
Long-term evolution, or LTE, is a mobile broadband technology that is very similar to WiMAX. LTE uses a technology called orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) access, and like WiMAX, LTE is IP-based. LTE coverage areas also span entire cities. The technology will roll out in the U.S. over the next few months and is predicted to deliver faster speeds than WiMAX.
Where can I get WiMAX and LTE?
WiMAX is currently available in select cities across the nation from providers including CLEAR and Sprint. WiMAX devices include smartphones, USB modems and mobile hotspots. AT&T and Verizon will roll out LTE in the coming months and will offer services on similar devices. With both LTE and WiMAX, you’ll have to live in a city with strong coverage in order to sign up for the service.
How can I get high-speed Internet while I travel?
Mobile broadband internet allows you to access high-speed Internet while you travel. However, mobile broadband is only available in cities with WiMAX or LTE coverage. Some Internet providers offer dual-mode modems that let you connect at 4G speeds inside the coverage area and switch to 3G speeds when you’re outside of it.
How do I find the right wireless Internet provider?
Finding the right wireless Internet provider comes down to a few important factors: your budget, where you live and how you use the Internet. Some of the latest mobile broadband technology is affordable, so budget should be the least of your worries. If speed matters most to you, make sure you choose a provider like CLEAR Internet with strong coverage in your area. Remember to do plenty of research before signing a contract.
