[rb437]

It seems that we are talking about two different types of wireless here. First is the WIFI which is the wireless network you can set up in your house and is open to every one in range if you don't enable the security features. Your neighbors will be using your internet connection if you don't set it up so they can't. This is the same type of wireless you can use at any Starbucks (or the like) just about anywhere in the country. The only expense involved is the purchase of the wireless router. Most computers you buy today will already have the necessary hardware to connect to a wireless router.

The other option, which I think randleman is contemplating is a wireless broadband service. I know Verizon and Sprint offer the service. Cingular may also. This is wireless internet service via a cellular phone network and should work wherever your cell phone works, assuming its on the same network. I used to have the Verizon service which I used for business purposes. It worked well but I cancelled it because I no longer need it. The major draw back is the cost. I was paying $60.00 per month and you usually have to do some sort of contract just like a cell phone. And it will cost you to cancel early. If you really think you'll use it, it's great. Or it could end up being an expensive toy.

I have a wireless network in the house so I too can sit on the back porch with my lap top, but my wireless broad band card is now a dust collector.