By Meredith Fahey of Digital Helpmates
We take the internet for granted – until it’s inaccessible to us. So much of our lives depend on online access that it can actually be dangerous to lose it. But what if you can’t get it in the first place?
When I first moved to Port Orchard, WA, I spent an entire month trying to get an internet service provider to hook us up. And we were only a mile from downtown! I wish I had known at the time about the FCC Broadband Map. It lists what internet providers are in your area and gives you an idea of what the speeds might be. (Check out this blog post of ours about understanding and testing internet speed, if you aren’t familiar.)
The fact is, we have more choices than ever to receive our high-speed internet to our remote homes, RVs, and even our automobiles, and choosing the right one can be downright confusing.
🛜 Fixed and Mobile Broadband: An Overview
You’re probably already familiar with internet service providers like Xfinity or CenturyLink. They provide their connection via coaxial (copper) cable, fiber optic cable, or over the phone lines via DSL. These providers are selling what’s known as “Fixed Broadband,” which requires a wire to transmit data. This requires the infrastructure to already be built in your area, and in the past, you had no other option for internet if your neighborhood lacked this wiring. However, new wire-free internet alternatives have been introduced in the past decade by cell phone and satellite service providers. These options are called “Mobile Broadband,” or “Mobile Internet,” and they utilize the already existing cellular networks or satellites to provide internet where wires can’t reach.
Mobile Broadband: 📲 Cellular vs. 📡 Satellite
📲 Cellular: If you live in a rural area and are having trouble getting internet, you may want to explore Verizon Home LTE/5G or T-Mobile Home Internet. You can potentially save money if you bundle your cellular service with Home Internet, but note that the service isn’t available in all areas. If you’re interested but overwhelmed at the prospect of switching internet services, our tech tutors can help you navigate the options that are available in your area and help you get set up.
📡 Satellite: If you are a boater, RVer, or digital nomad who travels beyond cellular tower reach, you may want to look into Starlink. Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, which has launched thousands of small satellites into low Earth orbit. Starlink aims to provide high-speed broadband internet access across the globe by creating a mesh network in space. This network allows data to be transmitted between satellites and directly to ground stations.
😫 Weak Cell Signal: What to do?
What if you want to choose a Mobile Internet option, but your cell phone signal is weak where you live? There are a few things you can do.
Buy a cell phone booster. These devices amplify the existing cell signal in your area, improving reception within your home.
An outdoor antenna. Yes, an antenna! These antennas capture and amplify the cell signal from a nearby tower, providing better coverage for your home.
When in doubt, talk to your provider. They might have more options for you.
What if none of these solutions work?
The challenge of nationwide internet service is far from solved, however. If you live in a remote area that’s still in a dead zone, you may feel this more than most. If you are interested in being involved with solving the problem of spotty internet infrastructure in the US, know that every state is receiving significant government money for this right now, and each has a state broadband office and a federal program officer from the NTIA.
And how cool would that be, to say you were part of the solution? 😎
Haven’t subscribed to our “Tip O’ The Week” emails yet? It’s easy and free! Click here to sign up, it only takes a second.
Who are we? Digital Helpmates offers one-on-one tech tutoring to home and business users at affordable prices. Find out more about our Tech Tutors and Jumpstart Office Teams at https://digitalhelpmates.com.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: “Tech Tips for the Technically Clueless”
FREE HOUR of Tech Tutoring - Grab it while you can!
Digital Helpmates is currently interviewing many potential new Tech Tutors, and one way we vet them is to ask them to provide a video of a one-on-one tutoring session with a sample “client.”
This offer is on a first come, first served basis for one hour of remote help, conducted over Zoom. The free hour must be claimed within 24 hours of being notified of being chosen, and booked within 48 hours.
To be considered for a free hour of Tech Tutoring, CLICK HERE and fill out this quick form. We will reach out via email to let you know you’ve been chosen. It’s that easy!
Comments