A wireless wide area network or WWAN is a way to connect to the Internet wirelessly, achieved using cell tower technology. Cell phone companies offer this type of connection for a monthly fee or, alternatively, on a pay-as-you-go basis. The connectivity allows a user with a laptop and a special card to browse the Internet, check email, or connect to a virtual private network (VPN) from anywhere within the regional boundaries of cellular service.
Cell tower technology can provide Internet connectivity over a wireless wide area network (WWAN).
As people become more dependent on online technology to conduct business and keep information flowing, wireless connectivity has become a virtual necessity. Many hotels and communities offer local connectivity, but coverage is often patchy or non-existent. WWAN can almost guarantee connectivity when the user needs it.
WWAN can guarantee Internet access in places where local connectivity can be spotty, such as hotels.
To take advantage of this technology, the user must first purchase a WWAN PC Card for their laptop, unless connectivity is built in. By purchasing the card and paying a monthly fee, the user only needs to insert the card into the PC card slot (also known as PCMCIA slot) to access the service. Plans vary between providers, but most are rated based on data download limits.
In some cases, a person may not need 24/7 access to the service, but would like to use it occasionally when free local networks are not available. Some providers have plans that allow users to pay per day for connectivity. By using the WWAN card, the person agrees to make a small charge, guaranteeing a 24-hour pass. At the end of the 24-hour period, the user can no longer connect unless they purchase another pass.
As an alternative to a WWAN card, you can connect some cell phones directly to a laptop using a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable. The cell phone acts as a modem to connect the laptop to the Internet. This is only possible with certain phone models and plans, and the data transfer speed will be slower than connecting to a WWAN card. Before using this method, users should check with their mobile carrier to see what fees, if any, may apply.
While in many cases there are less expensive ways to get wireless connectivity, few cover the territory that WWAN offers to anyone who visits, lives or works in remote or “wireless” areas. Service is typically available in regions where services such as digital subscriber line (DSL) and cable may not be available. It can also be an international solution for global travelers, offering yet another option to stay connected.
WWAN can allow people to connect to the Internet while vacationing in exotic locations.
