A recent poll by the website BroadbandChoices has suggested that internet users in the United Kingdom are largely ignorant of the advantages associated with wireless broadband.
Wireless broadband – otherwise known as WiFi, provides internet users with a number of benefits. Wireless internet connections preclude the need for unsightly wires and Ethernet cables. In addition, it is possible for several computers to make use of one broadband connection and users are able to surf the net from any location within reach of the signal.
According to BroadbandChoices, internet service providers (ISPs) must bear much of the blame for consumers’ lack of knowledge. Consumers are often ignorant of the basics of wireless internet connections. Many are even unaware of what is meant by the term ‘wireless broadband’. A worrying number of customers believed that having a wireless internet connection would require them to install special packages. In reality, consumers have a choice on how to install wireless internet systems and it is possible to obtain such a connection simply by using an existing phone line. According to Michael Phillips, Product Director for BroadbandChoices “This misconception could be down to ISPs giving the impression that they are offering a 'wireless package' when they are just providing a normal broadband connection with a wireless router as part of the deal. Anyone with broadband can have a wireless connection - they just need the right router, and you can either get this from your provider or from any computer hardware retailer.”
The BroadbandChoices poll revealed that consumers frequently cited trivial reasons for failing to take advantage of the WiFi services available. A staggering 44% of users were concerned that they would be unable to deal with the “technicalities arising from wireless broadband.” In particular, those polled were concerned about whether or not they would be able to install wireless routers themselves. Michael Phillips however argues that such fears are unfounded: “Wireless routers are easy to set up. Also, if you get one direct from your internet service provider, which most of us will, it will arrive preconfigured with all the right settings. Going wireless is not at all complex - it's as easy as plugging your phone cable in when using a traditional fixed-line broadband service.” Another 27% of consumers stated that they were unwilling to use WiFI services because they were worried that doing so would make them more susceptible to identity theft – a wholly unfounded fear. WiFi services provide users with just as much security as other forms of broadband. Users simply need to ensure that they have the right security programs and virus protection software in place. Finally, the BroadbandChoices poll revealed that 25% of users were unwilling to switch to WiFi because their current ISP did not offer the service.
Wireless internet connections have a number of important advantages over existing broadband services. If you would like to switch to a WiFi connection, but are unsure of which ISP to choose, it is wise to consult consumer guides – the magazine Which? is an excellent example.
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