Laptop and Internet question

[BAD91]

Forgive me for asking cuz i have no clue about computers. My question is can I get internet access from a place that doesnt have any wifi access? Example if I was at the beach or park, could i get wireless internet access? if so exactly what would i have to do?

Secondly, what laptop should I be looking at? Mac book? The laptop would be for a little work, some surfing, and work email for when I am out and about and out of town.

thanks for your help.

[Len-Det64]

You would need to get a wireless internet card (broadband internet access card) provided by a cell phone company.

[nosoupforyou]

just don't get AT&T, this thing has been ass on a stick ever since I got it 2 months ago.

[HeShootsNScores]

If you're not using it for minor tasks like you just said, get a PC... unless you have the money to drop on a Mac. I wouldn't be able to justify spending that much on a Mac to check email, surf the web... etc.

[Creeping Death]

You will want an AirCard like Len posted earlier. They run about $60/month, and cost about $50-$100 depending on the card and what specials they are running.

Depending on what you want to do with the laptop, would a Smartphone serve the same purpose? It will let you surf the web, read email, and do a few basic functions. If you are going to buy a laptop, I would look at either an Apple iBook or HP Compaq notebook. If you have specific questions, shoot me a PM dude.

[SuxBeingU]

you can also get your "aircard" in USB format now. There a few out there just make sure they are the current model with the fastest speeds.
If you have a cell phone you may get a discount with the second line, you should get a gov't discount with all carriers anyway as well.

If you don't use it alot you can "tether" off your cellphone with your laptop. You need a data plan on your voice line but it works pretty well for occassional use. this is how I use mine in the field.

[DanteHicks]

Sprint phones tether free - Verizon charges for the privilege even on the so-called "unlimited" data plan.

[Unfiltered]

Originally Posted by SuxBeingU

you can also get your "aircard" in USB format now. There a few out there just make sure they are the current model with the fastest speeds.

Which is what you'll need if you went with a MacBook, as they don't have a card slot. You'd have to bump to a MacBook Pro for that.

I agree with the others and go with a PC notebook if you're only going to be surfing and checking email, and such.

[BAD91]

Thx everyone for your replies. I appreciate it. CD, I will eventually send you a PM.