The Scoop On Wi-Fi

Our love affair with the Internet is at an all-time high. As a result, we are constantly seeking out new ways to connect with friends, family, and vast stores of digital information no matter where we happen to be throughout our day.

This week I want to talk a bit about wireless internet connectivity. Specifically, I want to offer some tips on the cheapest ways to use wi-fi. What is Wi-Fi exactly? Very simply, W-Fi enabled devices allow you to connect to the internet from any location, indoors or out, as long as you are in close proximity to a wireless network. Interconnected access points, often colloquially referred to as "hotspots," serve as the central connection zone that can be anywhere in size from a small room to a large area covering several miles.

Here are the two main ways to save while connecting online via Wi-Fi technology:

If you love surfing the web at home and want to do so with a modicum of flexibility, then it's time to cast that old bundle of wires and cables back to the past where they belong. The convenience of setting up a wireless network at home means you can move about the house and access the net from any room. To get started, you will need to sign up with an internet service provider that offers high speed broadband service. There are some great services out there offering solid discounts that won't negatively stretch the limits of your budget. Verizon, for example, often offers affordable discounts and rates for a quality service.

Many home wireless networks consist of all or at least some of the following pieces of equipment: wireless network adapters, wireless access points, wireless routers, add-on wireless antennas, and wireless signal boosters. Many service plans will include a free wireless router with plan sign-up. You can also purchase one of your own if you are looking for something a bit more powerful. It may cost a bit more, but I have found Linksys to be one of the best and most reliable brands when it comes to wireless accessories.

When on the go, the best way to Wi-Fi on the cheap is to seek out and hit one of the various cafés, coffee shops, bookstores, or libraries that offer wi-fi access around the country. Many offer free Wi-Fi connectivity and as I always say, you can't beat free. Most locations can be pulled up via a simple Google search by city. These online hotspots allow you to work, play or create on-the-go. Again, check online to see what each local spot offers in terms of price and level of connection.

I hope this has served as a nice introduction into the world of Wi-Fi. I know I just scratched the surface and will likely do a follow-up very soon to hit some of the other cool features associated with this wireless phenomenon. As always, you post can post any questions and comments below and follow me on on Twitter @SavingsGCapes for daily updates and tech deals and links.