General Question About Routers

Bachelor wrote:
Thanks for the replies. It all sounds pretty good.
Further question: can the same router be used with any Internet provider when moving to another location? I presume the answer is yes, just making sure.

These stand alone wireless internet devices are usually referred to as a "hotspot". Usually the device is specific to a given network. This is why some travelers who rely on internet for work have (for example) both a Verizon hotspot, and an AT&T hotspot. If one doesn't work in a particular location, the other might.

These things are like a cell phone, basically. They work with one provider. In fact, some cell providers allow use of your phone as a hotspot.

Big Katuna wrote:
Are you talking about a cellular solution for internet or an internet connection via cable, like Century Link or Comcast?

Very good question. All cellular mobile hotspots are routers. All routers are not cellular mobile hotspots.

Bachelor wrote:
Thanks for the replies. It all sounds pretty good.
Further question: can the same router be used with any Internet provider when moving to another location? I presume the answer is yes, just making sure.

Generally speaking - NO. I've heard some have a SIM card that allows them to switch networks by replacing the SIM card.

FMCA members can sign-up for an Unlimited Data plan through Sprint for $50/month.

My so called Unlimited Verizon plan throttles me after 15GB a month. I can still access the internet but not at the higher speeds allowed in the beginning of the month.

I'm online a bunch and my data usage averages 45GB a month. It's all browsing, email and FB. I haven't streamed any movies while achieving that number.

Are you talking about a cellular solution for internet or an internet connection via cable, like Century Link or Comcast?

Thanks for the replies. It all sounds pretty good.
Further question: can the same router be used with any Internet provider when moving to another location? I presume the answer is yes, just making sure.

Read all about it here:

TechnoMadia

Bottom line - most of us use a 4G cellular hot-sport (Verizon calls them a "Mi-Fi") for internet access. All the major carriers offer them but coverage, cost, and data allowances vary from provider to provider. Depending on your carrier, you can get internet anywhere you have a a cellular tower with a good signal that's not overloaded with traffic. We have a Verizon Mi-Fi with unlimited data (a plan you can't get any more) and it has served us extremely well as full-timers.

Rob

Bachelor wrote:
Hello, all. I'm used to always using public wifi hotspots.My wuestion is:
If I wish to obtain a paid service:
1. Does the service supply a device known as a router?
2. If I change location, is the router transportable to the new location?
3. Does the router simply plug in to a 120 volt socket and connect to the computer wirelessly, or are there other wires to contend with?

Thanks in advance for your help to this newbee.

1) Yes, or you can purchase your own.

2) Yes.

3) Most have a rechargeable battery, and come with a charger, or they can be connected to a USB port for charging. Connection to the computer is wireless and, after initial setup, automatic.

Every service provider (carrier) will furnish a device with a contract plan or you can purchase a compatible device on your own through eBay or Craig's List and go with a no contract plan.

Here's a page where Verizon shows their "mobile hotspots"
https://www.verizonwireless.com/internet-devices/

No matter where you take them or turn them on (as long as there's a cell signal) the hotspot (wireless router) will connect to network provided by the carrier. Once that happens you can get "online". No changes are necessary on your part after the initial setup. If your computer doesn't connect automatically you may need to scan for the WiFi networks available and connect to the one your device is broadcasting. It's much more secure and safe than connecting to a public WiFi network.

I don't believe the 5G option is practical right now as it hasn't been completely implemented yet and it's range is much less than 4G service which can be fast enough to watch streaming videos. The more data you use, the more it costs.