If you are all geared up to choose the best mobile broadband to subscribe to, you are joining the ranks of more than six billion people who are already using mobile broadband today. This growing number shows that more and more people feel the need to be connected to the rest of the world, not only from their offices or homes but wherever they may be. The usual Wi-Fi and internet services only provide connectivity within a fixed, limited area. With its capacity to air signals everywhere, mobile broadband has become the logical alternative.
If you are choosing your mobile broadband service for the first time, here are some pointers to make sure you can get optimum benefits from your plan without having to learn from some unpleasant experience.
- Types of Mobile Broadband Plans
There are two basic mobile broadband plans. One allows you to pay charges depending on actual usage and the other bills you according to a monthly fee. In order to avail of services from either type (unless you are using a Smartphone), you will need a SIM card or a device called a dongle.
- Beware of Special Offers
Some providers will charge a one-time fee for a dongle while other may allow you to use it for free. Some will give it away from free, or even provide a laptop or a tablet if you sign up for a lock-in contract or more costly plan. If you want to get the best mobile broadband service, don’t succumb to these freebies impulsively. Be sure to do the math and take into consideration the actual number of hours you need internet access while away from your usual work station.
- Choose Between “Pay as You Go” and Contract
When you opt to pay only according to actual usage, you will not be bound to a contract. This can actually come out cheaper for you if you only need to use the service occasionally. Again, you need to do the math. Compute the cost of paying per hour against a monthly fee to see which will serve you best. However, be sure to take into account any extra charges you may incur if you only pay for usage. Some providers will add some upfront charges for this, including rental or purchase of a dongle.
- Consider Contract Length
Signing up for a contract may mean that you will get a good deal in terms of price. This may include not having to pay any sign up costs and getting a free dongle as well. However, one thing you need to think about is whether you want to be tied to the same plan and the same provider for a considerable length of time. Changes are taking place so rapidly in terms of technology and services in the mobile broadband market. In a matter of months, what you have chosen as the best mobile broadband may actually be outdated.
- Verify Coverage Quality
Before signing on the dotted line, find out where your prospective provider has good service, and check these against the places where you will need Internet access from your own device. Most providers have a website where you can type in an address to verify service. Of course, this is no guarantee that you will consistently get good signal because there may be obstructions from the geography of these areas.
Doing the groundwork before signing up for a mobile broadband service takes patient research. But if you really need Internet access even when you are away from your home or your office, then getting the best mobile broadband is worth the effort.