Do you like to bring a laptop or tablet while camping? If so, then you need wifi which will enable you to watch movies, and check email in your tent.
You are in luck because most campgrounds have wifi or at least good cell signal so you can use a hotspot.
When we go on a trip we want to have fast Wi-Fi, especially camping and caravanning fans always tell us that having the internet in a caravan is a basic need and increasingly necessary.
Of course, we also want to connect inside the caravan, cabin or tent of the campsite.
How to Have an Internet Connection Anywhere?
We are camping with our laptop and we have to do a series of actions with the laptop, we need to have an Internet connection but of course, we are out of any form of technology and our home, we do not have any kind of Internet signal to hit us.
Luckily today we have several interesting options to have the Internet almost anywhere and even without spending money. We can have a connection on our laptop or any other device. Let’s explain some of the methods we have in mind.
How Can I Have Internet Connection While Camping?
Share Wi-Fi with Your Mobile
One of the options we have to have the Internet anywhere is to use our mobile phone. Nowadays, practically all users have a data rate. We can have the Internet anywhere thanks to our mobile phone.
If we look back, just a few years ago we used our mobile phone basically to make calls or send SMS. This has changed. Today we can surf the net, check our e-mail, and enter social networks… We have a wide range of possibilities anywhere.
This means that we have an active mobile data rate and can surf anywhere, which is something that a few years ago was unthinkable and very expensive.
Most modern phones allow the option of sharing Wi-Fi with other devices. This we can use to have the Internet on our laptop anywhere. Our mobile acts as a modem and uses the data to allow us to connect.
Ideally, you should set a password to prevent intruders from entering. This password has to be strong and complex. Avoid for example putting our name or a simple numerical sequence.
Once the network is active, we simply have to search for networks from the computer and connect to it. It is, without a doubt, the best option to have the Internet in any place.
Using a Mobile Router
An interesting option to have the Internet anywhere is to use a mobile router. As in the previous case, we will need to have a mobile data rate. This option, therefore, may not be valid in other countries where our tariff is not active.
There are many options for having a 4G router or mobile router. They count as main advantages just what we said: we can take it anywhere. However, we must take into account that we need to have coverage for the connection to work.
This is an interesting alternative for those who want to connect several devices at the same time. This way we can use the connection for one or several laptops, as well as other mobile devices. We will have access to the Internet from any place and at any time, even if we go on a train or bus.
Wi-Fi USB
Very similar to the previous one we can use a Wi-Fi USB. It is a small modem that plugs in via USB to our laptop. You have to carry a SIM card connected by 3G or 4G and that is the one that gives the Internet.
It is a fairly comfortable option to carry since it barely takes up space. Besides, it is usually cheaper than buying a Wi-Fi router. However, you have to take into account that the connection speed will not be the same. However, it can be used for everyday tasks or those that do not require an excellent connection.
It is therefore a very interesting alternative to have an Internet connection anywhere and without taking up much space.
Thanks to the technological advances in this world, we can always enjoy an Internet connection even when we are far from civilization, as long as we have a plan.
Interesting Facts and Details About Wi-Fi
Before the invention of Wi-Fi, wireless connections were conducted with the help of infrared technologies. In that case, users need to sit next to each other for transferring data. On the other side, using Wi-Fi, it is possible to transfer data up to larger distances, even within the range of a few hundred meters. This wireless experience could lead to enhanced convenience for internet users worldwide.
Now Wi-Fi has become one of the most preferred and widely accepted ways of internet access. The best thing about this network is that it allows connection establishment in just a fraction of seconds while promising higher transmission rates. Moreover, as every digital device these days comes with a Wi-Fi module, it can be easily used to make connections on the go
You can secure your connection by using a VPN to encrypt your connection.
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a short form of Wireless Fidelity. It makes use of radio frequencies to send and receive signals between digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops wirelessly. In order to transfer data, you may need a Wi-Fi enabled router.
Note that the Wi-Fi connections work in a similar manner as that of the cable-based connections where Wi-Fi devices get registered with the router to make data exchange possible online. The main advantage of this system is that it works without the need for wires so that users could roam freely in the area. The handheld devices could transfer data without losing signals on the go. The advanced Wi-Fi networks are even secured by some advanced security and privacy algorithms.
Since Wi-Fi networks make use of radio waves, the data can be transferred over a specific range of frequency. The 2.4 GHz network is one of the widely followed standard online. It clearly means that all wireless devices make use of this frequency; hence, the network receives lots of traffic due to the higher number of the hardware. Another major alternative to the 2.4 GHz band is the 5 GHz band, it is subjected to low interference for data transfers.
Everything you need to know about MiFi: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/what-is-mifi
Evolution of Wi-Fi
The first most wireless network was developed in the year 1971 and it was known as ALOHAnet. After this, the concept of Wi-Fi was first given by IEEE in the year 1999 which represented the CSIRO invented 802.11 standards. After that, all the Wi-Fi technologies were based on the main standard 802.11. With time, the Wi-Fi Alliance became the main player in promoting and solving issues related to interoperability and connections. It has been more than 20 years now and technology has advanced in many ways.
The first most standard of Wi-Fi that is 802.11a was launched in the year 1999, with this, users could only send and receive emails. In the year 2009, the experts developed an 802.11n standard where users started networking various home appliances to enjoy enhanced entertainment experience. They were also able to share Wi-Fi access in public settings such as airports and cafes.
In the past few years, the 802.11ac standard started dominating the Wi-Fi market and it was observed to be almost four times faster as compared to the previous standard of Wi-Fi. The fast speed of this new technology promises pleasant and unprecedented experiences to the end-users. For example, earlier it required several hours to download a 2GB high definition movie. However, with the 802.11ac standard, the large movie files could be downloaded just within three minutes.
Wi-Fi 5 was established in the year 2013 and slowly a wide range of people started using this 5GHz network. Many devices also started using dual Wi-Fi network where devices could use both channels concurrently. Wi-Fi 6 is the latest standard that supports faster data transfers with higher capacity, even when multiple devices are connected over the network.
Advantages of modern Wi-Fi network:
Wi-Fi 6 is better known as the massive upgrade to the Wi-Fi standard. It is being widely used in sports stadiums, educational environments, corporate offices, hospitals, shopping malls, and apartment buildings. The technology has become more useful with the increasing number of users worldwide. The coronavirus crises further gave a rise to the work from home trends where people need to stay connected to the internet all the time.
This latest standard in Wi-Fi technology offers the fastest connection speed, supports the great density of the connected devices, and has greater reach. It also supports a higher density of connected devices. All these features further lead to an enhanced user experience like:
Lower latency
This clearly means that data will flow smoothly with lesser delays while improving the overall experience of the users.
Higher speeds
Wi-Fi6 is capable enough to improve data transfer rates by a speed over 10mbps when connected to single devices. The tests show an improvement of around 60%. The great news is that Wi-Fi 6 standard is the perfect choice for crowded spaces where a higher number of people are connected to the same network. Hence, you can assure drastic improvement over data transfer rates with the advanced version of Wi-Fi.
Battery life
As Wi-Fi 6 works with improved efficiency to identify and locate devices, it is possible to enjoy greater overall battery life. This is just because your device is spending lesser time searching for a signal.
Better household Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi 6 makes use of an advanced form of MU-MIMO; hence, it is believed to be an ideal solution for the average household. The routers are able to connect up to 8 devices simultaneously while ensuring faster speeds of data transfers. It offers a high quality, efficient, and stable connection with fewer problems.
Although most of the routers these days are equipped with Wi-Fi 6, the technology may still take some time for full adoption. In order to use Wi-Fi 6, it is important to have both device and router with the Wi-Fi 6 capability.
Wi-Fi Certification
The Wi-Fi Alliance was founded to provide internationally recognized authorization and certification to Wi-Fi service providers. In order to avail of this certification, the vendors first need to join the Wi-Fi alliance. To get their products certified, they first need to become a part of the Wi-Fi alliance to engage with the certification process.
Allion was earlier granted the complete authorization to conduct Wi-Fi testing activities and today, they are the only professionals to test labs that further offer complete testing facilities for Wi-Fi products. The tests cover a wide range of fundamental testing services including product security, connectivity, and peripheral services such as network optimization, network access, and many other application tests as well.
The certified products are labeled with the logo that ensures the credibility of the test. The wireless environment allows users to multitask while sitting comfortably in the living room. The Wi-Fi networks make multiple connections possible over a single channel such as you can access the internet through your TV, laptop, mobile phone at the same time while staying connected to the single router. With wireless technology, people can communicate with each other while enjoying the wireless lifestyle.
Steps to Connect to a Wi-Fi
Now you have gone through the basics of Wi-Fi, it is time to learn the steps to connect to the network around you. For instance, if you want to connect to a Wi-Fi network in a hotel, restaurant, or at the airport, you need to follow these simple steps:
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First of all, the user needs to have a device with the ability to connect to the Wi-Fi or internet.
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Now, they need to turn on your Wi-Fi port and search for the name of the available Wi-Fi network in the area. Note that every Wi-Fi network has a unique name that consists of random letters or numbers. The names can be personalized by the owner of the Wi-Fi router.
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As soon as your device finishes search for the network name, the next important step is to connect to the Wi-Fi. The process of establishing a connection may differ from device to device. However, the broad options are navigating to the Wi-Fi settings, turning on Wi-Fi, choosing the name of the desired Wi-Fi network, and then clicking on the “Connect”.
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Most of these networks provide restricted access with a password. In this case, you must know the secret password and enter the same to complete the connection with the network. As soon as you enter the password, the connection will be established and soon you will be able to use the internet on your device.
Mobile Internet Connection: The Best Options Available
A. The RV Wi-Fi Booster and Public Networks
The first option that you can look into if you want to have an Internet connection on the road is the RV Wi-Fi booster. This refers to a contraption that will allow you to boost Wi-Fi signals no matter where you may end up in your RV.
This machine comes with an antenna that will detect signals and allow you to connect to the Internet without interruption. It will be able to deliver signals from nearby hotspots without you even traveling there.
B. The Pocket Modem
Another option that you have is the pocket modem. Depending on your internet service provider, they may be able to offer you a pocket Wi-Fi Service that you can use while in the car.
You just have to turn on the portable gadget and log in with a password to activate the WI-FI signal and get online. This way, you will be able to stay connected to your friends and coworkers or family members while in the comfort of your car.
The problem with this is that the signal may be too weak resulting in slower Internet connections. If this happens to you, you may have to choose a different option that will be discussed later on in this article.
C. Mobile Data Connection
This is an alternative that you can have if you want to have an Internet connection on the go is to use your mobile devices. Almost all of the mobile network companies in the U.S. have offered to provide their users with data plans that can help them connect to the Internet even without Wi-Fi.
There is one issue with this though. Just like with the pocket Wi-Fi, the speed of the connection is not very reliable on mobile phones. In addition to this, some data plans are dependent on how much load you would have on your cell phone.
You would be lucky enough to have faster Internet if you are on a monthly plan with your phone company. However, if you do not, you would have to contend with slower connections for sure.
Other Advantages of Your Mobile Data Connection
Your mobile device can also be used as a modem in the vehicle if you need Internet access. Your computer may be connected to your mobile gadget through the USB cable, Bluetooth or infrared connection. The cell phone will then connect to the wireless provider which will be your line to the web.
If you have a portable wireless router, you can also use this to connect to multiple PCs and displays. However, be wary of your data plan because it may not be able to accommodate the use of multiple devices and may affect your Internet speed and connection down the line.
Also make sure that when you use your mobile device, you can connect to the best network possible. At present, 4G networks are the best options that you can have regarding connections for mobile.
Some mobile companies also provide USB devices that can serve as your connection to the Wireless Network. These devices are also known as air cards. If you want to learn more about various data plans available as well as gadgets for Internet connection, do not be afraid to consult your chosen mobile company website to get more information.
D. Wi-Fi Hot Spots
Another option that you can have if you want to stay connected is to find a WI-FI hot spot that will provide you with sufficient Internet connection while in public and at a campground. In this regard, there are many options available to you.
Where Can You Go To Connect?
You can choose to go to public spaces such as the following to gain a stable Internet connection:
• Restaurants, Fast Food Chains
• Libraries, RV parks
• Rest Stops, Convenience Stores
You can also get a connection at airports and office buildings with wireless Internet access available. Just as long as the location is not too remote, chances are you will have full connectivity.
E. Your Satellite or Cable Connection
If you have enough money, you can also gain Internet access through your satellite or cable connection. This should be paid for monthly and would end up being added to your monthly bill on top of your cable subscription.
Though pricier, this particular option would provide you with much faster connectivity compared to public or mobile WI-FI.
The Pros and Cons
One of the many pros of having a satellite connection while camping is endless Internet access. You can go on the road and not have to worry about weak reception or web connection wherever you are in the country. Just make sure that you are in full range of the sky and you’ll have Internet wherever you may be.
However, one of the major drawbacks of this particular web connection source is the fact that the signal is dependent on time. Download speeds are contingent upon peak hours, and there could be restrictive access policies depending on where you are.
In addition to this, there’s also latency and weather-related problems. Satellite signals may be jammed because of bad weather. Equipment setup can also be an issue for those who have limited budgets.
However, as we said if you have the money this will be a great option because you will be able to get Internet signals wherever you may be in the country.
Are you still interested in this particular option? You should contact your cable service provider for more information. They will also be able to provide you with installation services for this down the line.
More Reminders
A. Charges
There may be separate charges for installation fees if you want to have Wi-Fi connections installed in your RV via satellite. To find out for sure, do not hesitate to contact your chosen Internet service provider in the future.
B. Internet Quality and Speed
In addition to this, the quality and speed of Internet service rely heavily on the designated network coverage. As long as there is internet service where you want to go, chances are you will be able to connect to the network even in the comfort of your car.
If you want to learn more about service coverage is for each ISP, you can also inquire about this through their website. Their webpage will also offer you information about the limit of their broadband speed as well as data caps for their connections if there are any.
C. Accessibility
Also, most public networks are easily accessible and require no passwords or additional fees for use. However, if you are not sure about the public Wi-Fi access in your area and any additional fees that you might incur while trying to connect, it would be best to do your homework first before trying to access the web in public.
Do not be afraid to ask establishment owners as well if they have additional fees for accessing Internet WI-FI from the establishment or the parking lot. This way, you will not have problems with the authorities if ever you do need to connect to the Internet in a public space.
D. Battery Life
You also have to be aware of the average battery life of each mobile gadget that you will be using while traveling. Make sure that you could sustain the battery life of your gadgets for many hours because you may not be able to find a stable power source on the road for some time while traveling.
If this happens, you will not be able to charge for a long time. Choose your gadgets wisely to avoid this problem.
Additional Security Risks and How to Deal with Them Properly
Once you have successfully connected to a public Wi-Fi network from your car, there are certain things that you need to be wary about when using this particular type of service to access the web. Here they are as follows:
A. Accessing Financial Records and E-mails Securely
First, you have to be careful about accessing financial information while using a public network connection. These types of connections are susceptible to hackers which might end up getting unwanted access to the private information on your computer.
To protect yourself from any unscrupulous entities that might attack your machine, it would be best for you not to access financial records or your personal e-mail while on the road.
B. On Passwords
In addition to this, you should not save your passwords while using a shared gadget or machine.
Do not leave your passwords lying around for the public to see. If you can, try to memorize all your passwords or write them down in a private notebook. Just put it somewhere secure so that no one will be able to find it and eventually hack your computer.
C. To Open Or Not To Open?
When using your gadget in public, it would be best not to open any files or executable messages coming from an unknown source. This is one way for the hackers to gain access to your computer without you knowing.
D. Keeping Your Security Programs Up-to-date
Also, always try to download items from a trusted site and make sure that your antivirus software, as well as your anti-malware programs, is up-to-date. This way, you will be sure that your gadgets will remain protected even if you use it in public.
Try to scan your gadgets whenever you have time regularly. This way, you will be certain of its security and safety.
With these reminders, you will feel safer about accessing the Internet while on the go.
People have a habit of intermixing the concept of the three terms namely Wi-Fi boosters, extenders, and repeaters but, their applications are way different from one another. Extenders and repeaters are cumulatively known as boosters. Even though the chief objective of employing the two is to make the internet connection stronger, they function in distinct ways.
- Repeaters
Repeaters are devices that are usually plugged either very close to the router or where the signal strength is comparatively weak to make the most out of it. After it is plugged in, the repeater will pick up a signal from a nearby spot and reproduce it inside your RV thereby, utilizing the area’s connection to directly strengthen the one in your vehicle. As evident from the name of the appliance itself, it will simply repeat the signal strength from the public space or campsite you are in inside the RV.
- Extenders
Extenders function a little more elaborately than repeaters and require to be affixed with the RV’s router through a physical connection like an Ethernet cord. The biggest advantage of having an extender at your disposal is that the device can translate whatever signal is being emitted by the router into a much stronger one. For that, you will not have to depend on any other adjoining connection like in the case of repeaters.
The dark side of owning a Wi-Fi booster for your RV
As far as the impacts of the repeaters are concerned, it can lead to the lagging of your router’s performance. The bandwidth (the speed at which the data is traveling through the air to reach the devices) gets affected by a repeater. It is because, when the repeater is connected with the Wi-Fi router, it inevitably creates a little pressure on the bandwidth; but, on the brighter side, it will cover the completely dead areas. Thus, if you are trying to enhance the Wi-Fi connection with your campsite’s internet, it will probably get connected but, the speed might not be that great.
Also, there’s this additional problem with the budget. Setting up a Wi-Fi in your RV in itself would be a tad expensive and on top of it, if you get any of these boosters, it would increase your bill. Besides, you will have to carry around and keep a track of innumerable cords and be compatible with the rudiments of computer set up and syncing which, in turn, means that you’ll end up investing a fair chunk of your time to getting these components fixed.
The top 4 Wi-Fi boosters available in the market
Now that we have deciphered that installing a Wi-Fi booster in your RV is indeed a viable recourse, we will be presenting you with the top 4 options that you should consider getting your hands on.
- Google Wi-Fi system
The Google Wi-Fi system is, undeniably, the most sophisticated and useful piece of device that you can ever own. Forget those boosters and routers that come in hefty sizes and have an infinite number of wires of antennas fortifying them. The Google Wi-Fi system is accompanied by a single wire and characterized by the virtues of sleek look and high-performance speed, which happen to be the two most important features of a powerful booster. Another advantage that we cannot miss out on here is that anybody can set this device up, regardless of their experience with Wi-Fi boosters or, any other such device for that matter.
- Alfa Wi-Fi Camp 2 Wi-Fi repeater
If you are on the lookout for something that is both reliable and durable, the Alfa Wi-Fi Camp 2repeater should be somewhere on the top of your wish-list. The kit repeater kit comprises an R36A portable router, USB, wireless adapters, and an antenna with high sensitivity that can be used outdoors. Most users who have procured this device in the past have revealed that the wireless adapter fetches remote Wi-Fi connection almost immediately after it is switched on. As for the R36A router, it efficaciously broadcasts the signal obtained by its counterpart to provide you with an improved and consistent source of the internet. Let’s not forget that assembling and configuring the elements included in the repeater kit is easy!
- PDQ Connect All-Pro Wi-Fi range extender hotspot
The PDQ Connect All-Pro Wi-Fi range extender has a router, pre-programmed amp, a multi-purpose mounting option, and a 30-feet outdoor CAT 5 cable and a protective guard. The router hotspot has been enabled with maximum coverage of 50 feet which implies that you can smoothly capitalize on the internet connection from any spot inside the vehicle. Even though the Wi-Fi amplifier is meant to reach a distance that is 20 miles away from its location, the strength of the connection will vary as per the conditions of the geographical area you are using it in and the nature of the devices connected to it. Moreover, the extender can be connected with all the gadgets and devices operating on Wi-Fi such as TV, iPhones, Android phones, laptops, PCs, etc.
- D-Link Wi-Fi range extender
The D-Link Wi-Fi range extender is one of those devices that can be connected with every wireless router under the sun and therefore, you can bid the ordeals of carrying a thousand extra cords goodbye! You can save a lot of time with the extender as it is a one-touch setup and is capable of connecting with up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices at once. The area of coverage can be enlarged up to 600ft with the D-Link Wi-Fi range extender and is best-suited to augment the internet speed by 10mbps.
