Streamyx Streamyx Wireless

Years ago, a wireless was a radio. Now, having a wireless doesn't mean you sit around listening to a box and trying to imagine pictures. It means wireless internet.

There are two types of wireless connections for your home. The first is Wireless Networking. This is a type of LAN which doesn't require the use of hubs to connect everyone to the same network. It's useful in houses where there's more than one desktop PC, and perhaps a laptop or two as well, as you don't need wires trailing all over the place. Wireless networking works by having a single central router that receives the signal from the telephone line and transmits a signal which is picked up by the closest wireless devices such as your home computers.

In a Wireless network (WiFi) the computers within it can communicate with each other, and a password is set to prevent outside connection and interference. Firewalls are essential, and fortunately they are standard with most wireless routers. A network card fitted to every computer within the network is necessary too, and again, they're usually standard in most newer PC's and laptops. If one PC in your house doesn't have a network card, it can still be connected to the WiFi network by means of cables.

Wireless broadband can be seen as an extension of standard broadband. The provider sets up your regular service through your phone line, but also sets you up for access at special WiFi points outside the home. Similar idea to an internet caf, except you can use your own laptop and settings, and you can find them in places like motorway service stations, airports, train stations, and any other places that travellers frequent.

Wireless broadband can be either paid for monthly along with your standard tariff, or used on a pay-as-you-go basis for periods of up to an hour. It all depends on how much you travel, and how often you would use the service.

Wireless broadband and wireless networking are slowly becoming more widely available as more providers catch onto the idea. Cheap broadband packages now offer a wireless option for around 10 - 15 per month.

Find cheap broadband by comparing providers online.

J Tillotson is a UK author specialising in technology and communications.