Internet USB sticks?
I've heard of these a LONG time ago, but i never understood what they are and how they work...i'm thinking of getting one if they do what i think they do....Provide internet in just that usb for you and people around you unlimitedly.
November 9, 2011
2 Comments • Newest first
That's my guess too... (actually a 3G/4G "modem", but who's keeping track).
They don't do what you think they do.
A wireless internet (wi-fi) router is a device that connects to an internet source and allows devices that can access wi-fi to connect to the internet. Wireless internet devices are not physically connected to the router in any way, but communicate to the router using radio transmission.
A USB wireless adapter is one of the correct names for the vague term "internet USB stick." Adapters allow computers without an internal wi-fi component to connect to wireless networks.
2G, 3G, and 4G capable smartphones (Android and certain iOS devices) can do what is called tethering: the phone shares it's 3G, etc. internet connection to other internet devices by connecting either by wi-fi, Bluetooth, or by the phone's cable. Smartphones transmitting internet by wifi function as mobile routers lending to the "mobile hotspot" branding name.
There also exist USB 2G, 3G, etc. adapters which do nearly the same thing as a USB wireless adapter. However, this method of internet connectivity requires a subscription that may be bundled with eligible smartphones in the contract.