Remember when the only way to connect to the Internet was through a landline? You patiently waited through the squealing, hissing and weird clunking only to realize that getting connected wasn’t a guarantee of staying connected. All those cyber hiccups eventually bumped you off, or at best, made everything move at the speed of molasses in January.

When the rest of the world moved on to broadband, most RVers were forced to stay with dial-up, making it possible to be online only when camped where there was a phone line available. Fortunately, things have changed and today there are several options for reliable Internet connections while on the road.

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1. Wi-Fi, or wireless connection, is one of the most popular ways to get connected. Many RV parks have installed wireless modems, which connect you to the Internet via a wireless card in your computer. These are standard on new computers and can be inserted in most older ones.  

Pros: It gives you access anywhere there’s a “hot spot” (a list of hot spots nationwide can be found at www.wififreespot.com ). The list includes many truck stops, RV camp grounds, cities, coffee shops and cafes.

Cons: Connections can be spotty if you’re too far away from the modem location. Some RV parks charge extra to access Wi-Fi and you may need to purchase a wireless card if your computer doesn’t have one. The connection needs to be configured on your computer, so you may need some support to get it set up.

2. Cellular wireless works through your cell phone or PDA and can offer you a stable connection as long as there is service. You can either access the Internet through your phone or use it as a modem by connecting it to your computer via a USB cable.

Pros: You don’t need to go anywhere to get connected. As long as your cell phone carrier has service, you can surf to your heart’s content.

Cons: You can’t use your phone and the computer at the same time—think back to the days of landline connections where you couldn’t make a call if you were online. Your provider may not have service in remote areas. It can get expensive—be sure to research your carrier’s plans before committing.

3. Cellular wireless cards can be installed in your computer so you connect to the internet directly through the cell provider’s tower instead of through your phone.

Pros: You can use your phone while you’re online. This is usually a less expensive option than using your phone directly to connect.

Cons: There can be potential connection issues depending on how far away you are from one of your carrier’s towers. Connection speed may vary, but technology is improving all the time.

4. Mobile satellites offer broadband speeds at the touch of a button. You purchase the satellite dish and turn it on when you want to get connected. The connection speed is fast enough to offer Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) service so you can take advantage of internet phone services like Skype without interruption.

Pros: You receive quick, reliable connections.

Cons: It can get expensive. Most services require that you purchase the equipment and then there’s a monthly fee. You only get service when you are stationary, not while you are in motion. You need to carry the dish with you.