Summary

12 IT Essentials: PC Harware and Software Companion GuideWirelessMany types of wireless Internet service are available. The same companies that offer cellularservice may offer Internet service. PCMCIA and PCI cards are used to connect a computerto the Internet. This service is not available in all areas.Service providers may offer wireless Internet service using microwave technology in limitedareas. Signals are transmitted directly to an antenna on the roof of the house or building.Research the connection types that the ISPs offer before selecting an ISP. Check the servicesavailable in your area. Compare connection speeds, reliability, and cost before committingto a service agreement.Table 15-2 describes some of the protocol details.Table 15-2Protocol DetailsType Advantages Disadvantages SpeedPOTS Very common Very slow speeds Maximum of 56kbpsCannot receive phonecalls while connectedISDN Higher speeds than POTS Still much slower than BRI: up to 128other broadband kbpstechnologies PRI: up to 2.048MbpsDSL Low cost Must be close to the 256 kbps tocarrier24 MbpsCable Very high download speed Slow upload speeds 384 kbps to24 MbpsSatellite Available when DSL and Significant time lag 9 kbps tocable are not24 MbpsMore expensive thanother broadbandtechnologiesWireless Scalable to customer needs Very expensive Up to 450 MbpsLimited marketavailability