soozalooza
05-05-2010, 05:43 AM
I realize the info I am after has likely already been discussed. I am not trying to get out of doing the legwork, but my hours spent searching and researching is not having positive results! Off the bat, I know very little about computers and anything related. I'm on my laptop a lot for random searching/entertainment but usually use trial & error to do things. My question is around mobile/wireless internet - basics of how it works, what is needed for it to be functional, options, etc... I am moving in a couple of days, and have to wait 2 weeks for my phone, cable, and internet to be hooked up. I am really hoping there is an alternative temporary internet option to see me through - am able and willing to pay for this, but do not have tons of cash to throw around. I am not into the internet cafe, library options, rather want something I can use specifically at my home. While perhaps unhealthy, I'm a total introvert and know no one where I'll be living and will be relying on my laptop and the internet for much of my sanity (my justification for not simply waiting out the 2 weeks!). My internet and phone provider will eventually be Shaw, so don't want to sign a contract even if its initially cheaper. I'm confused about the various products I've come across trying to figure this out - routers, internet sticks, usb's... don't know if these are all options or are used together (don't even know what they are). I am also unclear if I would still need to sign on with an internet provider It seems using a cell as a modem may be another option, but I don't know if I would need a specific phone or anything in addition to to the phone to make this viable? I have thought of just getting a cell for internet purposes, but have no interest in the phone itself so think this may not be practical? Ultimately, I am wanting to know my options/the best and most affordable option for a temporary, yet decent, internet connection and exactly what all I would need to purchase and/or sign up for. My sincere apologies for the length of my inquiry, but know I will be lost without as much detail as possible! If you've made it this far, thank you! This may be of no relevance, but I have an HP pavilion entertainment notebool with vista. I would be incredibly grateful for any direction!