What’s a Hotspot?

A while ago, my mom gave me a call to ask what provider I used for cable.  When I told her that I did not have cable or even a home phone line, she was very curious as to how I was able to get Internet access at home.  I proceeded to tell her about my wireless hotspot, to which she said, a what?  So, dear readers, let me explain…

A wireless or mobile hotspot is a device that is provided by a cellular carrier (i.e. Verizon) and it allows you to connect a certain number of devices to the Internet via wireless, or wi-fi, as it is most commonly called.  In my case, I have a wireless hotspot from Clear.com which allows me to connect up to 8 devices at any one time.  I pay $45 for unlimited data, which means I can surf as much as I want without overage charges on my bill.

The hotspot comes in handy, in my case for home Internet access, but it also comes in handy for a situation where you are mobile and need a quick Internet connection.  Nowadays, most places are starting to offer free Wi-Fi, like Starbucks and McDonald’s for example, but in situations when you are in a pinch, it helps to have your own device.  Besides internet access at home though, the other main reason for getting the hotspot was to provide my Wi-Fi only tablet with Internet access.

Also, keep in mind that, if your phone supports it, you can use your phone as a hotspot.  This normally comes at an added fee of $20 a month depending on the carrier but this is yet another way to provide Internet access on the go to your laptop or tablet.

Do you  currently use a mobile hotspot or use the service on your phone?  If not, how do you get Internet access on the go?  Share with us in the comments.