A friend is considering an iPad and although he is computer 'savvy' he doesn't have a computer. Instead he uses one at the local library. The question is, what set-up does he need at home to use the iPad on WiFi?
He'll need a broadband service with a router capable of creating a wireless network.
If by wi-fi you just mean connecting wirelessly to the internet, he could buy one of the 3G iPads (they have a mobile phone type sim card) and use the mobile network all the time. This is likely to be slower but could possibly work out cheaper depending on the contract he opts for and the amount he downloads. If taking this route he must make sure that his chosen network has a strong 3G signal in his home.
Thanks Mick. I think he may go for the 3G model because he will want to use the iPad on his boat. I assume that a Dongle can't be attached to the iPad?
Dongle seems to be used for a multitude of devices these days. If you mean a mobile broadband device then no as these are invariably USB and the iPad has no USB port.
If he has a good mobile phone deal with data allowance (and a modern smart phone like an iPhone) he may be able to "tether" the iPad i.e. get the mobile phone to broadcast a wi-fi network. But some carriers do not allow this or charge extra if they do.
Thanks again Mick. All helpful info which I will discuss with friend tomorrow. Will try to 'sell' him on Macs since he has only used PCs at the library.
You can also get a 'MiFi' Dongle, which does not require a USB post. It has a 3G chip within it, and connects itself to the internet via that. Then it generates a local wifi network which you can connect your iPad (and up to 5 other devices) to in the normal way. I have mine on the 3 Network, and use a pay-as-you-go option, since I rarely use it. But its nice to have it for those times when I DO need it...
As I said, 3 Network does a Huawei Mifi dongle, and as far as I am aware, T-Mobile/Orange also do a version, but you would have to do a bit more research to see if anyone else does it.
Roy Rainford 