If you use your cell phone for all calls, you may be wondering what the options are for Internet service without a phone line. Here are some solutions to consider if you’re thinking about dropping your phone line.

1. Use cable Internet (available through most cable TV providers). The Internet signal will run through a cable hook up to your home, and will require a modem, usually supplied by the cable company, to connect the cable to your computer or the wireless router. The “Savings Widget” above will not only summarize the cable Internet providers available at your address, but can also compare promotions and bundle options that are available.
2. Order satellite Internet. While the technology is similar to satellite TV, the two services can not share a dish. The dish also has to be installed with an unobstructed view facing south.
3. Try mobile broadband (aka, an Air card).  Mobile broadband allows you to have Internet access without a phone using the wireless network. These USB modems and PC cards, which plug into your computer, connect to the standard cellular network (3G or 4G for optimum speed). However, they have the same limitations as other cell devices regarding inconsistent coverage in enclosed, underground or remote locations. Wireless carriers offer numerous plans and pricing ranging from monthly fees to daily pre-paid access. Also take into consideration the carrier’s coverage as it relates to where you’ll be accessing the Internet with the card. If you have spotty cell phone coverage at your house, you’ll also have spotty Internet access with mobile broadband.

If you decide to go this route, and you have several wireless devices, look into an Intelligent Mobile Hotspot that taps into the cellular network and allows several wi-fi enabled devices to connect at one time.

4. Try stand-alone DSL.  Some ISPs have created a service known as “dry loop”, also known as “naked DSL” or “stand-alone DSL”, to allow consumers access to high speed Internet without a phone line. This technology runs through your existing phones wires, but you don’t need a home phone to use it. However, not all DSL providers offer stand-alone DSL and pricing varies depending on speed and current promotions. This option for Internet without a phone is evolving, so check plans and pricing using the “Savings Widget” above.
5. Visit Wi-fi hotspots. Grab your laptop and log-in at the thousands of wireless hotspots. Many are free, though some have policies as to how long you can remain online. Websites that allow you to enter your zip code for a list of nearby wi-fi locations include wi-fihotspotlist.com, hotspothaven.com, wi-fifreespot.com, and openwifispots.com.

Tags: cable Internet providers, Internet Service without a Phone Line, Internet without a phone, stand-alone DSL

This entry was posted on Friday, May 28th, 2010 at 8:42 am and is filed under Cable Internet, DSL High Speed Internet, Internet Services. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.