Wireless broadband and mobile broadband explained

The popularity of mobile devices and broadband Internet has exploded over the past five years, so it only makes sense that the two have been married, creating one of technology's perfect couples - mobile broadband.

Just like any product union, there have been some initial technical issues to sort out, but Telstra have taken the lead with their Next G network and are paving the way for mobile and wireless broadband technology in Australia. Choosing between a mobile broadband connection and a wireless one comes down to which device (mobile or laptop) you use the most and how much you roam.

Comparing wireless and mobile broadband connections

Recognising the differences between a mobile and wireless broadband connection can seem confusing. This is mainly due to fact that mobile and wireless sound like exactly the same thing. If you are using a mobile device, of course the Internet will be wireless, but the terms "mobile" and "wireless" in this instance, are referring to the type of connection.

The major differences:

• A wireless connection can only be accessed from a laptop with a modem; where as a mobile connection can be accessed from a number of devices, including PDA phones and laptops with a mobile broadband card
• While both operate off the same network, they use different TCP/IP domains to access them
• Mobile connections take advantage of the fact that a mobile network is made up of cells, so as a device moves from one location to the other, it can usually maintain a stable connection
• Wireless broadband uses a modem to connect. With a modem connection, the computer and modem need to be within a certain distance from each other for a stable connection
• Wireless is generally more affordable

For information about plans and costs, the major providers in Australia are Telstra, 3, Optus and Vodafone.