There are many reasons why one may need to access the internet when they find themselves in a location without service. Fortunately, there are several methods of getting online, even when you lack any connection. None of these options will provide the fastest speeds available, but sometimes it’s better to be at least partially connected than totally cut off from the world wide web. Below we have discussed how to get internet where there is no service.
Best Ways to Get Internet Where there is No Service
#1. Let your smartphone serve as your connection:
Smartphones have become increasingly popular and more widespread since they were first introduced into the marketplace decades ago. They also happen to be portable and capable of connecting wirelessly using cell phone networks and public Wi-Fi hotspots (for example, those found around libraries, coffee shops, malls). Even when your phone isn’t being used for much else, it can be used to access the internet if you don’t mind which websites you’re able to visit.
- Your phone will be fully equipped with all the latest apps, which can make it a lot more useful.
- It’s available at all times and easily accessible.
- Your phone’s battery can drain quickly if you’re using it for a lot of tasks.
- Slightly faster speeds than Wi-Fi hotspots in some cases, depending on where you are and how strong your computer’s wireless networking hardware happens to be.
- Not as fast as other available internet options, i.e., public Wi-Fi hotspots and home internet connections.
#2. Please make use of public Wi-Fi hotspots:
Many individuals (and even some businesses) allow free or paid access to their private networks that are accessible for anyone nearby. It helps provide wireless internet access without further costs, but keep in mind that other people might be trying to use this same online resource simultaneously, so speed may vary depending on how many others are connecting. Also, make sure your smartphone is fully charged before attempting to connect; otherwise, you’ll lose battery quickly while browsing the web over a wireless network.
- Public Wi-Fi hotspots (including ones in restaurants) are relatively easy to locate, especially in more populated areas where they’re most common. Your best bet is to check local businesses and public places.
- It’s free, and almost all smartphones come equipped with the proper wireless networking hardware, so you’re able to use this option right away.
- It can be faster than other options, like using your phone’s data plan.
- You might not be able to access certain websites because your usage of the network may result in bandwidth throttling or outright blocking of connections. This can happen when you consume too much data at once and exceed the available capacity for other users on that particular connection point.
#3. Dial-up Access via Phone Line:
Dial-up internet has been around for decades, and it’s still kicking to this day (albeit less common than it used to be). By connecting your phone line to a modem through an adapter, you can access the web without relying on any wireless network. Just keep in mind that dial-up speeds are typically significantly slower than those provided by more sought-after connection types.
- You can get online without any wireless connection or smartphone. All you need is a phone line and an old-fashioned dial-up modem.
- It’s inexpensive and easy to set up.
- Dial-up internet is still available in some areas, so you can find free or inexpensive access if needed.
- Dial-up speeds aren’t quite as fast as other options, and most services don’t support connectivity beyond simple email and web browsing (you won’t be able to stream audio/video). Also, the days of unlimited dial-up plans are long gone; you’ll probably need to pay a monthly fee for any reliable service, which means it’s not feasible for more intensive tasks such as online gaming or downloading large files.
#4. Tether your computer wirelessly:
Having made the necessary adjustments inside your laptop or desktop computer to share its internet connection wirelessly, you can easily link up with the network that is running off of your phone. It is also useful for connecting multiple devices to the same network. Still, you’ll need to make sure no other people are using it before trying this option (or they may end up sharing your personal information with others).
- You can share your laptop’s internet connection with other devices.
- Slightly faster speeds than Wi-Fi hotspots in some cases, depending on where you are and how strong your computer’s wireless networking hardware happens to be.
- Not all computers can share their connections wirelessly, so you might need to purchase certain adapter hardware if needed. Also, you’re sacrificing some speed compared to a wired Ethernet connection because data has to travel over the airwaves before it reaches its destination.
#5. Use an internet sharing device:
For anyone who would like an easier way out (and possibly better speeds), there are options available in the form of portable hotspots you can take anywhere with you. These devices plug into a wall outlet for power and then connect to nearby public networks or private ones that allow them access. Several third-party brands are on the market these days but expect to pay at least $80 for one of these devices; some are up to $150, making their initial investment not very cost-effective.
- Very fast speeds and easy setup.
- Works all over the world as long as you have access to a power outlet. Cellular carriers typically offer these hotspots and service plans that include free international data, so it’s possible to use them in other countries without additional fees.
- Most hotspots don’t support more than one device at once, which means you’ll need to purchase multiple units or wait until others are finished using theirs before trying anything on your own devices (which will again limit speed). Some services also require monthly plans for anyone who wants network access outside of their home country, making this option less cost-effective than simply signing up for local cellular service while traveling internationally.
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#6. Broadband DSL Internet Access:
For those who would like to try their luck with a more reliable and trustworthy method of getting online, DSL is the way to go. This type of internet connection requires a landline telephone line to connect properly, but most homes have these lines installed already (and if not, they’re fairly inexpensive to install). In most cases, the installation process is free, although there may be some nominal fees involved before you can use your new service.
- Pricing plans are typically the same as standard home phone service, so it’s easy to budget for an internet connection this way.
- Speed is pretty fast, although you may experience some congestion during peak hours (such as evening time when everyone returns home from work). If your family spends a lot of time online, DSL might not be the best option.
- High latency times are possible depending on where you live, which can significantly impact how well games perform. Distance is also a factor with DSL connections, so if you aren’t close enough to the telephone company office serving your area, speeds will suffer greatly compared with closer or located in major cities.
#7. Cable Internet Access:
Cable providers offer a similar product as DSL services do; they only require a cable television line for connectivity purposes. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure you have access to both a working TV and phone line before signing up for anything – although many companies now allow for digital phone service to be added on, too. The initial installation process is almost identical to DSL services, except that a coaxial cable is used instead of a telephone line. However, the monthly fees you’ll have to pay are around the same as those for DSL, making this option an affordable way of getting online.
- Cable service providers offer a wide variety of bundles that include TV, internet, and phone services for a discounted price.
- One of the fastest ways to get internet on a local connection during peak hours is due to lack of congestion on their network. Cable companies also have more control over speed thanks to regulating traffic over their lines.
- The initial installation process is typically free, but this isn’t guaranteed by any means. You may be required to pay additional fees for certain equipment installed at your home before you can use your service, which could bump up costs quite a bit depending on how much you’re paying in the first place.
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#8. Satellite Broadband Internet Access:
If you’re out in the middle of nowhere and find yourself with no other option than to use your phone as an internet connection, then satellite broadband may be the way to go. This type of service requires a small dish (typically around 2 feet) which must be pointed at a specific location for signal reception purposes; however, it will only work so long as you have clear access to the sky during operation hours. Fees vary by provider but expect to pay well over $100 per month unless otherwise stated on advertisements or promotional material you come across online.
- For the most part, speeds are good, and latency is low. Since there are no fiber optic lines involved with this type of broadband service, it can be a more affordable option for homes in rural areas where cable or DSL aren’t available.
- Depending on where you live, installation can take a significant amount of time due to things like tall trees or steep hills blocking the dish from doing its job properly. One problem leads to another in this scenario because poor signal reception leads to slow speeds, leading to high latencies – just one of many potential pitfalls when using satellite services.
None of these options will allow you access to the entire internet like it’s intended. Still, they’ll give you enough connection to accomplish certain tasks (such as checking email or logging into social media sites). Keep in mind that if your web activities convey sensitive information (such as personal details), it’s best not to use any of these methods until ensuring your privacy is properly protected.
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