Airport WiFi Not a Reliable Option for Business Travelers

Consumer Information | Internet Access

One of the biggest obstacles of bringing your laptop on a business trip can be finding a spot to connect to WiFi, especially if you aren’t in one of the top airports that caters to tech savvy travelers. Even if you do end up in one of the more tech friendly airports, you may run into the following WiFi problems:

Free Public WiFi networks

Be wary of the so-called Free Public WiFi networks. These tend to be fake unsecured networks and by connecting to them, you run the risk of having information stolen.

Limited range

So you found a free and secured WiFi network in the airport, but that access is limited to a specific terminal or waiting area. This will become a nightmare if you share a terminal or waiting area with a screaming baby and/or someone with a bad case of gas. Trust me on this one.

You have to be a member of the club

A few airlines offer carte blanche wireless high speed internet access, but unless you’re a frequent First Class flyer or purchase a club membership, chances are you’ll never get to take advantage of this travel perk.

Your best bet

The most convenient and straightforward way to securely connect to the internet – whether in an airport or hotel – is through a mobile broadband device.

All major cell phone providers offer a wireless data service for mobile broadband capable devices including tablets, mobile hotspots, netbooks, and laptop sticks. As long as you can get a signal from your cell phone provider, you can connect to the internet from your laptop, tablet, or mobile device.

Just be sure to get an unlimited data plan, otherwise internet overage charges will burn a hole in your wallet.