The pace with which technology evolves is fast. To the uninitiated or the gadget averse, this can leave us with the impression we are being left behind or, more commonly, leads to misconceptions about what is really on offer. A classic example of this is ‘Wireless Broadband’. If you plug a wireless router into your phone line it allows several devices to connect to the internet without the bird’s nest of wires to complicate matters. However, most broadband providers are offering wireless broadband packages and many consumers think that this is a new entity.
Aware of this potential confusion BroadbandChoices.co.uk ran a poll to discover the extent of the misconception amongst British consumers. They believe that internet service providers (ISPs) are causing much of this confusion by marketing ‘wireless broadband’ as if it were a service separate from a fixed line package using a wireless router.
“It would appear that ISP’s are helping to create these misconceptions that stop customers from taking advantage of the benefits of wireless – especially during the summer months when they could be online while topping up their tan in the garden,” says Michael Phillips, product director of BroadbandChoices.co.uk. “The industry really needs to make this clearer to their customers. Consumers should have more choice about how they use their broadband package,” continues Phillips. “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,” concludes Phillips.
Once a wireless router is installed, it not only removes the unsightly mess of wires, it allows multiple users to connect through the same connection. This means no more arguments about who’s turn it is on the net and as the range on some routers can reach up to a hundred metres, you can now be online whilst doing the gardening or having a bath.
Over 90 per cent of poll respondents cited unfounded reasons for not having wireless broadband . The top three reasons for not having wireless broadband were:
‘I am worried about dealing with the technicalities of wireless broadband’ – 44%
‘I am worried that my bank details may be at risk’ – 27%
‘My supplier does not offer a wireless broadband package’ – 25%
The facts:
Almost no technical knowledge is required to install a wireless router. If your router was supplied with your broadband package it should already be configured to the correct settings. It is usually as simple as plugging the router into the phone cable.
Your bank details can be as safe with wireless as they are with a fixed line service. Because no physical link is necessary, it is possible for an unauthorized person to access your network- if you don’t use security. Most routers now have built in encryption that can be activated at the touch of a button. However, even if you don’t commit sensitive data to your network you should still secure your connection, otherwise you are not only at risk from hackers gaining access to your computer but also from next doors kids using your bandwidth.
It is true- providers don’t offer wireless packages, they just offer a free wireless router with a broadband package. It is immaterial whether you use the router or plug the phone line directly into your computer. The service you receive will be the same; you just won’t be able to send emails from the potting shed and you may drown in wires.
About BroadbandChoices.co.uk: http://www.BroadbandChoices.co.uk
BroadbandChoices.co.uk is the second biggest broadband comparison service in the UK. And, whilst many comparison sites focus only on price BroadbandChoices.co.uk looks to provide value as well as price performance. The website impartially contrasts the offers available, is regularly updated and hosts many articles- written by experts to ensure the choices you make are informed.
What makes BroadbandChoices.co.uk different:
The range of consumer guides is extensive and the advice comprehensive
The emphasis is always on value rather than just cost
The ability to rank products according to individual priorities not the providers priorites
Detailed product information
The ability to talk to like-minded people, read reviews or just share your thoughts
Up-to-date information regarding key industry developments
Access to bespoke interactive tools (speed tester & download monitor)