The internet plays a very important role in our lives. We use the internet for many purposes that include, studying, research, email, video, social networking, blogging etc. Most of us use the internet every day. There are many ways we can access the internet. They include desktops, laptops, tablets, our smart phones and smart devices but travelers won’t be using desktops as they cannot be carried around. There are many ways we can access the internet when travelling abroad.
Wi-Fi
Wi- Fi is wireless form in which a device can connect to the internet. All portable devices in this day and age have the capability and can connect via Wi-Fi. These signals are sent via a router and can be used to a certain distance. Currently the most common form of internet access is done via Wi-Fi. This form of internet access is available in most or in all airports. It is also available in hotels, restaurants, pubs, public places etc. This facility can be available free or paid.
Accessing the internet is easy and could be accessed with a password or by simply connecting your device when you see the name of the Wi-Fi. The password is usually given when using a hotel, pub etc.
Some countries have better access to the internet than others. Countries such as USA, UK, Germany, France and Canada Wi-Fi won’t be a problem as it is available everywhere in urban regions. In third world countries this is not the case as they may not have the same infrastructure as their first world counterparts.
For example, in Australia Wi-Fi will be available in most regions but if you travel to Papua New Guinea you may need to access internet through another method.
Wi-Fi is one of the easiest methods of accessing the internet and its hassle free. There is no requirement to carry anything other than your device to connect to and access internet.
Data connection
A data connection is when internet can be used via a sim card. The sim card is inserted into a phone or a dongle where in the case of the dongle it can be used on a laptop to access the internet.
Roaming can be activated on the sim and it enables it to work in other countries but the costs will vary from country to country. Usually the costs are very high. The other option is to buy a sim from the country your visiting and use it. This method requires preparation such as enabling roaming for the sim card or purchasing a sim from another country.
There are other methods that are less likely to be used by travelers and are not used in this day age such as Dial up and wired connections.
The easiest method of accessing the internet would be Wireless connection but if you are unsure if the locations has this facility, your best bet would be to use a dongle as it is the safest method.