Even though the concept is still budding, users are signing up with wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) in all parts of the globe, but the services vary wildly -- as do the providers.
Because the market is still young, it may take some time to sort out the leaders, but IDC analyst Alex Slawsby is convinced telecoms will win the wireless ISP war, in the long run.
According to Gartner mobile wireless research director Phil Redman, the key is to determine what kind of service is needed before shopping around and settling on a particular ISP.
For constant access to e-mail, a BlackBerry device with access provided by Research In Motion might be most suitable.
To connect with a company intranet from a hotel 2,000 miles away, service from Ipass -- which caters specifically to the corporate market -- is probably better.
But Boingo could be the best choice, right now, for just about anyone looking for wireless access to the Internet.