Question re. Wireless Security--Aircard or Cable Internet?

I could use your help. Which is more secure: Internet access via a Verizon mobile-broadband card (aircard) or via a cable company, but without using a local wireless network (that is, running the ethernet cable to the computer straight from the non-wireless router)? Don't the wireless carriers have security encryption on their networks that is pretty sophisticated?

On one hand, the Verizon service costs a little more than the $30/mo for cable Internet, and it limits your downloads--50 MB for $40/mo or $60/mo for 5GB (though I seldom download anything). On the other hand, I'm fearing that the cable company, when installing the service, would load up my computer with all sorts of bloatware. I'm also going to move in 6 months or sooner and don't want to deal with unsubscribing to the cable service.

I've used the Cingular aircard (via my old job), and it was basically OK in Manhattan. My VZW cell coverage is excellent everywhere, and I like the simplicity of just plugging in the aircard and starting, without a lot of equipment or some installer coming by.

Here's the free aircard VZW is giving out with a 2-year agreement: http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/...t&action=viewPhoneDetail&selectedPhoneId=3324

Thoughts? Advice?

Thanks!

 

There is no software installed on your computer by the cable company, so don't worry about bloatware. It's not a big hassle to move/disconnect cable service. In fact, as long as the new area has the same cable company, it should be very easy to transfer your cable account to the new residence.

Most cable companies don't require a year commitment, as long as you don't get the free stuff or discounted HBO, Starz, or any other packages. However, you will have to sign a two or three year contract with any cellular company. So, you're left with a decision - get Verizon and pay for a few years for a service you might not need after moving and getting cable, or move and don't get cable internet and stick with Verizon.

Personally, unless you really need to be connected while traveling, I would go for cable. It's cheaper, will be faster, and you won't have to worry about bad connections in the new neighborhood.

As for security, both are good choices.

 

Thanks, Kegobeer. And may the farce be with you.

I'm going to see if the cable company can activate service remotely. If so, that would be a major appeal. It would be great if I could just call up Time-Warner, buy some cheap router, and get crackin'. Then, as you said, I'd just cancel when we move.

 

BTW, here's what made me afraid of the bloatware. This is from the Time-Warner site:

Road Runner
High Speed Online Offer

• FREE eTrust EZ Armor Security Suite (no thanks!)
• Safe Storage & Parental Controls
• Personalize Your Home Page (don't want one)
• 5 Email Accounts (get away!)
• 24/7 Customer Service Support
• Instant Message with Road Runner Messenger

I don't want all that crapola. I'm wondering if I can just get the service turned on without it.

 

You don't have to install that crap.

 

Or if they insist on installing (which I don't think they should), you can uninstall it later. lol @ Road Runner Messenger.