Internet connectivity options
Desktop/Laptop Connectivity
There are two main ways desktop and laptop users can connect to the Internet: via a wired connection (plugged into an ethernet cable) or via a wireless Wi-Fi connection. Your home network may use one of the following options to connect to the Internet:
- Fiber-optic Internet
- Cable modem
- DSL phone connection
- Satellite connection
- Cell phone network
When users take their laptops outside the home, they can connect to Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops, restaurants, public libraries, business centers, and Internet cafés. Airplane users who want access to Concord may consider looking for flights that include Wi-Fi service.
When on-the-go, users may purchase a dedicated Wi-Fi hotspot that allows them to create a Wi-Fi connection over a cellular network for a laptop or tablet. Or alternatively, users may turn their smartphones into a Wi-Fi hotspot for an additional connectivity option (further instructions below).
Turn your smartphone into a Wi-Fi hotspot for on-the-go Internet connectivity to Concord
Most smartphones available today allow you to make your phone a Wi-Fi hotspot. This means that the cellular signal your phone receives can be used to transmit a wireless Internet signal (called Wi-Fi). You can then connect your laptop, tablet, or even your desktop (if it has a Wi-Fi card) to that Wi-Fi hotspot to access the Internet.
Please Note:
1. Be aware that using your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot could result in heavy data usage which could lead to data overage charges on your mobile data plan.
2. Using your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot drains the battery faster than usual; therefore it is recommended that you keep your mobile device plugged in while using it in this manner.
For iPhone users:
- Go to Settings
- Tap "Personal Hotspot"
- Turn "Personal Hotspot" ON
- On the "Personal Hotspot" page you will find the password and network name information.
- Connect your tablet or laptop to that Wi-Fi network using the name and password listed on the "Personal Hotspot" page.
For Android users:
- Go to Settings
- Find "Wireless network" options (note: may be under "More")
- Turn on "Hotspot" (might be called "Portable Wi-Fi hotspot" or "Mobile hotspot." You should see a message appear in the notification bar when it is activated.)
- On the "Wi-Fi hotspot settings" page you will find the password and network name information.
- Connect your tablet or laptop to your phone's Wi-Fi network using the name and password listed on the "Wi-Fi hotspot settings" page.
Cell Phone Signal Booster and Wi-Fi Range Extenders for improving your Internet connectivity at home
Cell service is constantly growing and improving. If you are in an area that is still in the development, you may need to boost the cellular signal in order to use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Find out more about these types of products by searching for "cell phone signal booster" via Google or your preferred search engine. Another device that may be useful is a Wi-Fi range extender that can improve Wi-Fi connectivity in your home or office.
Staying connected through power outages
In today's "connected" world, keeping your laptop running from its battery isn't enough. In order to truly stay connected during a power outage requires staying connected to your Wi-Fi network. You can keep your Wi-Fi network equipment running for 3 to 5 hours during a power outage by plugging the modem and router into an APC Back-UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) Connect device. This tool can keep you connected to the Internet even when the power is out. As long as the provider is still providing a signal, you can keep your Internet active even during a power outage.
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