| Unaware of the ease in getting a | | | | pre-configured routers that users just |
| wireless broadband (WiFi) router, more | | | | plug in and connect. Again, this |
| than a quarter of UK subscribers think | | | | dependency leaves consumers less likely |
| that they cannot go wireless because | | | | to switch provider - a move that can |
| their provider doesn't offer this kind | | | | save them a lot of money and even get |
| of package. In actual fact, there is no | | | | them a free wireless router. |
| such thing as a "wireless package" where | | | | 31 per cent said that they were worried |
| a different kind of broadband is piped | | | | about their personal details - such as |
| into someone's home - all that's needed | | | | bank account numbers - being at risk. |
| is a WiFi router. Once it is plugged | | | | On a positive note however, 88 per cent |
| into the modem, the wireless signal will | | | | of those currently without a wireless |
| be emitted and users can surf the | | | | broadband security connection were |
| internet cable-free. | | | | planning on getting it in the coming |
| This relatively common misconception | | | | year, proving that they had not been |
| shows that customers are overly reliant | | | | scared off by groundless reports in the |
| on their internet providers for both | | | | media that WiFi poses a health risk - |
| information and hardware, not knowing | | | | cited by only four per cent as the |
| that it is relatively cheap and easy to | | | | reason that they did not have it. |
| buy and set up their own wireless | | | | Asked what they thought of their |
| routers and home networks. | | | | wireless connections, some reported |
| It is misapprehensions such as this that | | | | connection problems but the majority of |
| are stopping broadband users from | | | | users said that they loved the ease of |
| getting the most out of their internet | | | | use, flexibility and lack of wires. One |
| packages - or from becoming less | | | | respondent said: "It's great to sit in |
| dependent on their providers. | | | | the garden and enjoy the sun and surf," |
| A further 44 per cent of respondents | | | | while another added: "I can sit |
| blamed their fear of the technicalities | | | | downstairs watching the horse racing on |
| involved in setting up a WiFi | | | | the TV, and while sitting on the sofa, |
| connection, but again, this is | | | | having a cup of tea, effortlessly place |
| unjustified since ISPs can send out | | | | a bet using my laptop. |