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USB Modems

USB modems have revolutionised the way we access the internet, giving rise to mobile broadband, the most convenient and hassle-free way to get online when you're away from home.

What are USB modems?

Small, thumb-sized bits of hardware that plug into - predictably enough - your laptop's USB port and act as a modem.

What do USB modems do?

Like regular modems, USB modems connect your computer - in this case a laptop - to the internet. Plugging one into your laptop makes it internet ready, regardless of where you are.

How do they work?

By accessing the mobile phone network and using it to transmit data between your computer and the internet. USB modems use exactly the same 'carrier' networks - Vodafone, T-Mobile etc - as you do when making phone calls to friends, but instead of transmitting your voice it sends data.

What are the advantages of USB modems?

The main attraction of USB modems is that - when used in conjunction with a laptop - they make the internet fully portable. You don't even have to be in a wireless Hotspot, because USB modems work anywhere there is a mobile phone signal. Also, mobile broadband packages offer greater flexibility in terms of price. Some mobile broadband providers offer ultra-flexible contracts that can cost as little as £2 for a day's use.

What does the future hold?

Dongles are becoming increasingly popular, with telecoms regulator Ofcom reporting that sales of USB modems nearly doubled in the first half of 2008. With more and more people choosing mobile broadband, this is only set to rise.

Where can I get one?

The main mobile broadband providers all offer free mobile broadband dongles with some of their packages, usually those with longer contracts. Alternatively you can buy one for around £50.

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