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People are now tethering cell phones to laptops and wi-fi is found almost everywhere. But there are limitations to using a cell phone and free wi-fi is not the most secure of methods for accessing the Internet. Alternatives exist in the form of cellular USB modems and Clear Wireless, the only company to have built a tower system that broadcasts in true 4G. However, it would seem that the added cost of a cellular modem, Clear Wireless and cell phones are inhibiting the use of portable Internet.

Cell phone companies are touting fast speeds and the ability to use the phone as a hot spot. The reality is, the ability to tether a phone and get consistently fast speeds is unreliable. Add into the mix the fact the cellular company charges for data usage over a certain point, and using the cell phone as hot spot becomes less attractive. Some companies charge for the privilege of using the phone for a hot spot in general. Overall, the cellular companies are inhibiting their own growth into this realm.

Cellular USB modems and Clear Wireless portable hotspots work better as they do one job, and one job only. Again, price comes into play as an inhibitor. These services cost up to $50 a month, an extra bill that is dear for many people. Clear Wireless has an advantage in that they are a wireless version of DSL and nothing else, but it is still pricey.

The future of portable Internet through hot spots remains to be seen. In the meantime, poor service and high pricing keep users away.