How Does a Webstick Work

The mobile Internet, also known as the mobile web, is becoming an increasingly important part of our daily lives. For many people, the ability to access the Internet while on the move is absolutely essential, either through a smart phone, a tablet, or a laptop computer. While most smartphones and tablets have inbuilt ability to access WiFi networks and mobile broadband services, many laptop and netbook users rely on small USB modems known as a surf stick or a webstick. A surf stick connects to a regular USB port on a mobile computer and allows customers to access appropriate 3G, 4G, and HSPA services in their local area. While many people would argue that the advent of tablets and smartphones is leading to a demise in the use of USB modems, millions of people around the world use surf sticks as a way to connect to the Internet on a regular basis.

There are a number of ways that people can connect to the Internet, including dial-up services, cellular broadband, and a variety of other broadband services. Some of the most common ways that people go online include ADSL, bonded dial up modems, ISDN, WiFi, WiMax, cable modems, fibre optic home connections, and satellite broadband. Some of these options are only available for stationary home computers, due to their use of hard wired connection lines and telephone network infrastructures. However, due to the popularity of laptop computers and the proliferation of the mobile Internet, more and more people are becoming interested in accessing online services while they are on the move. Small USB modems are popular for a number of reasons, not the least of which is their ability to allow practically any computer to access online services with ease.

While some netbooks and laptop computers have internal modems that can connect to the Internet, many do not. Surf sticks allow all computers with a USB port to connect to common online services with ease, so that people with basic laptop devices can still go online while they are away from home. USB modems are regularly available from various network providers, with some models also available from electronics shops and able to be configured to multiple networks easily. However, most people who use surf stick devices get them directly from network providers, either as part of a contract or for an upfront fee in a pay as you go service.