internet access

[jack]

Have just ordered a T42 which will be our first laptop ever so I apologize for the stupid question. For internet access on our desktops, we use Comcast cable in Maryland & Bellsouth dialup in Florida. We will use the laptop on trips, mainly in the U.S. For internet access on the laptop, Comcast isn't an option and Bellsouth seems to charge both 800 number time charges and monthly fees over & above what we already pay. What are our best alternatives, with ease of use and reasonable cost being the main criteria? Many thanks!

[JHEM]

I'm afraid that I don't understand why you say that Comcast isn't an option to access the WWW from your laptop. What is stopping you?

The T42 has a Gigabit ethernet port built in and, depending on the model, also has WiFi built in or at the least has the ability to install it via a mini-PCI card. When at home you can easily connect to your Comcast cable either via a CAT-5 cable or via a wireless (WiFi) router.

When I'm on the road, which is often, I have a T-Mobile WiFi account to access pubilc Wireless Access Points (WAPs) but there are so many open WiFi networks around the country that I rarely use it.

You can also get a wireless modem from T-Mobile and others that will allow you to access the cellular networks for surfing and email.

If you already have a T-Mobile cellular phone, you add unlimited internet access to your existing service for $19.95 a month.

Regards,

James

[jack]

Should have said I do realize we can use Comcast when using the laptop in our Maryland home. But when we travel, we often rent private homes in fairly remote areas not near wi-fi sites, so I am assuming we will need dialup service via an 800 number for those locations.