Verizon Wi-Fi Comes to US Mobile Broadband Users

Mobile phone carrier Verizon Wireless announced on Tuesday the launch of a new offering for its users, in the form of Verizon Wi-Fi. Through it, its Mobile Broadband customers will enjoy a new way of connecting to a great deal of Wi-Fi hotspots without having to pay extra. Moreover, the company also says that the new option has been introduced due to a great increase of connectivity needs of its users, and will enable them to easily switch from its 3G wireless network to a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Verizon Wi-Fi comes to users in a wide range of locations, including airports, bookstores, coffee shops, hotels and more across the US, as well as in certain locations in Canada and Mexico, meaning that users will also enjoy lower roaming charges when connected to a Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot in these countries. In addition, Verizon's customers have the opportunity to search for the hotspots by address or type of location.

“When within range of a Verizon Wi-Fi hotspot, customers can use VZAccess Manager to connect with a Wi-Fi-enabled notebook or netbook computer. When they are ready to move, but want to remain connected, or if they want the added security of the Verizon Wireless network, customers can simply switch back to Verizon Wireless’ 3G wireless network, which is the largest and most reliable in the country. These choices can help them manage their monthly data allowance by potentially preventing overage charges and saving the allowance for when mobility is needed,” the carrier also added.

Through Verizon Wi-Fi, customers will enjoy easy Internet connectivity, no matter whether one wants to browse the web, access social networking sites or work. However, a monthly Mobile Broadband or GlobalAccess plan is needed for access to Verizon Wi-Fi, as well as a supported device, such as “a Mobile Broadband USB modem, PC Card, ExpressCard, Verizon Wireless MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot, or a notebook or netbook with Mobile Broadband Built-In running Windows 7, 2000, XP or Vista,” the company notes.

VZAccess Manager version 7.2 or higher also needs to be installed on the PC for access to the Verizon Wi-Fi. Those who would like to view the entire list of devices that are supported by Verizon Wi-Fi should go here, where the upgrade to VZAccess Manager 7.2 is also available. More details on the new offering and on the Verizon Wi-Fi hotspots can be found on the company's website.