We live in a world where we are accustomed to being connected to the Internet at all times. It's almost impossible to go out without wanting to have Internet. Between email, social networks, settling arguments, and chatting with friends, we all feel like the Internet is not optional at this point.
I am not here to debate whether being connected at all times is a good or bad thing for society as a whole. Instead, I am going to show you exactly what you need to be connected at all times, whether you are home or on the road. The fact is, it's becoming cheaper and easier to stay connected anywhere, and I am here to guide you on your journey towards having Internet anywhere you go.
Get the Internet Anywhere Using 4G
If it is available in your area, you are going to want to grab all of these devices with 4G capability. The substantial improvement to data speed is noticeable and if you are planning on doing any heavy data lifting while on the go, you will most certainly appreciate having the additional speed.
Smartphone
This might seem obvious, but a smartphone truly is one of the best ways to stay connected to the Internet anywhere. Nearly every smartphone features a web browser and an app store that can keep you connected as you venture around the world. Some smartphones even come with the ability to be used overseas, so you can be connected to the Internet even if you are traveling.
Whether you choose Android, iPhone, Blackberry, or any other operating system out there, a smartphone is an essential part of having Internet everywhere.
Tethering
While a smartphone itself can help you stay connected, you can actually take a step further with the rise of tethering to share your smartphone's connection with another device. There was a time when tethering was prohibitively expensive, but now, many mobile carriers offer the ability to tether right in the default data plan.
If you have a jailbroken iPhone, programs like MyWi can get you tethering without a data plan, but of course, this could upset your mobile carrier, so be careful if you elect to go this route. There are similar programs on Android as well. Whether you do it through your carrier, or you take matters into your own hands, tethering is a great way to bring the Internet anywhere you go.
Mobile Hotspots & USB Dongles
If you don't want to use your smartphone to get Internet, you can always pick up a Mobile Hotspot device. In the US, there are actually companies offering a limited amount of data without any monthly cost. Both NetZero and FreedomPop offer a small amount of data free, and incredibly cheap plans if you need more data.
Personally, I have a FreedomPop USB stick, and I cannot complain; 500MB of free data is just enough to handle basic tasks on the go when I need it.
Of course, the major carriers also offer hotspot devices, both with and without long-term contracts. You won't be getting data free from a major carrier, but the service will be reliable, and you can often get the actual devices without cost if you sign a contract.
Speaking of mobile data devices, there are two major kinds, and each has its own pros and cons. This little breakdown of the two should help you figure out which one is for you:
Mobile Hotspot:
Pros
- Multiple devices can connect to one hotspot
- Can connect devices without USB
Cons
- Needs a dedicated power outlet if battery runs out
- Other can connect without permission if you don't have security in place
USB Dongle:
Pros
- Powered by the device its plugged into
- Smaller and easier to carry
- Very secure
Cons
- Only one device can connect at a time
- Cannot connect tablets and non-USB devices
Whatever way you decide to go, mobile broadband is an awesome way to take the Internet as you hit the street.
Wi-Fi Finders
Sometimes, cellular data just doesn't do the job. As long as you followed the very first step and grabbed a smartphone, you can always find Wi-Fi, so you will be able to get some Internet even if cellular data is not available. There are apps that can handle this on iOS and Android [No longer available], so if all else fails, you can always find Wi-Fi in your area.
Power
If you are going to be connected all the time, you are going to need to keep all those electronic goodies fully charged. You will need to have car chargers, wall chargers, backup batteries, and if you really want to go all out, you might want to a grab a backpack with a battery to keep everything juiced up as you travel around. Being connected does you no good if your devices are dead!
Conclusion
With these items in place, you should be able to connect to the Internet anywhere you go. Whether you want to connect your tablet, smartphone, or laptop, you will be able to with no problem. Of course, you may have to drop a few dollars to get everything you need, but once you do, you will be ready to travel the world with the Internet always close at hand.
Image Credit: 3D Man With Symbol Of Wifi Connection via Shutterstock