[jcmanson]

So, I've been looking around for broadband internet service, but I haven't been able to find anything in my area except for DirecTV and that's too expensive. Can anyone give me any information on wireless internet service? My dad's employer just got him a laptop, and it has wireless service from Nextel that apparently works like a cell phone. I only have a desktop PC, how would this work? Is it something I should do, or should I stick with slow dial-up?

[thesportscritic]

have you checked out Verizon? is that not available in your area?

[jcmanson]

Yes, I have, and no, it's not available. Neither is Comcast or Adelphia.

[El Scorcho]

The wireless broadband stuff works pretty well if you're in a major city. If you're in Richmond like it says, you should be fine. Just check the coverage map of the provider you're considering going with. They'll probably give you a card to slide into your computer, however, there are also little home routers out there that have slots for those cards.

[LUconn]

Ntelos has one around here that works really well.
I wanted to try out Helio but the high speed internet portion isn't in this area yet. But it blankets richmond so you should be good.

[jcmanson]

Well, I'm just outside of Richmond, and that has been my major problem. People haven't moved their service as far out as I am yet.

Scorcho, is it worth going with it (as long as I can find someone that works well in my area) for the price compared to dial-up?

[El Scorcho]

Yes, it's worth it. You'll get speeds comparable to DSL over wireless broadband.

[jcmanson]

Cool, thanks. Anyone in particular you recommend?

[El Scorcho]

I can't recommend anyone in particular because I'm not out that way to have used them. It's really all about who has the best coverage where you are.