As laptop computers have become cheaper and more effective, and other forms of mobile communication have gained in popularity, the days of being tied to your desk to access the internet are long gone. Now you can sit comfortably on your sofa with a laptop on hand, linked wirelessly to your internet hub elsewhere in the home. But if you're out and about, what are your options?

Dongle

The most effective way to guarantee internet access wherever you are is to use a dongle, a USB stick that accesses the internet using Wi-Fi or over a mobile network, in much the same way that a mobile phone allows you to make calls. You simply plug it into your computer, turn it on and you're online.

You can buy a dongle with mobile broadband on a monthly contract, which is probably the cheapest option if you plan on using it a lot, or you can get one on a pay as you go basis. Some broadband internet providers also give customers a dongle as part of their broadband package. Make sure you know your limits - some providers levy heavy charges if you use more data than your allowance permits.

Generally, download speeds with dongles are not as fast as they are with home-based systems, although they are improving quickly. At times, you may also find you get problems with reception - for example, if you are in the middle of a building with thick walls. But they are more than good enough for browsing the internet, sending emails and so on.

Wi-Fi

Many bars, restaurants, hotels and coffee shops now offer Wi-Fi internet access to their customers. In this country at least, it's unlikely you'll have to pay for it. Wi-Fi is simply wireless access, and will work in the same way as your home system. Usually you will need a password, which will be available from staff at the establishment - just type it in and you're online for your time there. Broadband download speeds will vary according to the equipment the business has and the number of users at the time, but it shouldn't be too far different from what you're used to at home.

Depending on where you're looking to access the internet, it shouldn't be too hard to find somewhere offeringbroadband wireless internet. Most towns will have several venues offering the service - if you look for the large chain pubs or coffee shops you won't be disappointed.

Wi-Fi communities

Some broadband providers offer a general access to home internet hubs controlled by other customers. For example, BT's Fon community allows users access to Wi-Fi in over half a million locations throughout the UK. The system works by securely allowing access to any of its home hubs around the country - it has little impact on the speed of the connection to either the existing or 'guest' user..

Mobile phones

Whether you have the latest iPhone, Blackberry or just standard mobile phone, chances are you'll have access to the internet from your device. Many websites and online services now have dedicated a 'mobile' application, which means the pages are customised for viewing on a small screen and without the benefit of a mouse. Speeds aren't as good, but they are getting better as more and more people use their mobiles to run their online lives.

BT Broadband

All BT Total Broadband options give you reliable broadband and a BT Home Hub as standard that has an unbeatable wireless connection compared to other UK broadband providers. Up to 20Mb broadband available now in selected areas.