Ask Kim: Is it possible to have Wi-Fi in an RV?
My son bought a camper and is going to live in it. He needs Wi-Fi and I was wondering how I could get this for him? He will be parking at his brother’s house.
— Jill in Montana
Let’s level up your internet camper options. For starters, the personal hotspot feature on his phone could be the Wi-Fi source in the camper. Plans generally cost between $30 to $60 a month.
The amount of data depends on the plan. You get unlimited data in some cases, while others limit you to a certain amount. Usually, if you go over, you get hit with a fee.
If his cell coverage is spotty, I’d consider satellite internet like Starlink. The gear is a bit of an investment ($599), and it runs around $150 a month for the mobile plan that’s best for RVs. It includes unlimited data.
Don’t forget about cybersecurity
Back in the day, you could only see what was on your network by logging in to your router using a browser. That still works, but most wireless providers now let you do this via an app.
Go to your provider’s website to find the official app, add it to your smartphone and log in with your ISP’s credentials.
They all have slightly different capabilities. For example, the Cox Panoramic Wi-Fi App lets you review and organize devices, change your Wi-Fi name and password, troubleshoot connection issues and more.
Another great feature: You can block internet connection to specific devices from anywhere — whether that’s a strange device you don’t recognize or the kids up late playing video games.
Use your router’s online interface
If there’s no app or you don’t want to bother, this simple way shows who and what is using your network. Log into your router to see the most up-to-date information about which devices are connected. Most models will support this as it’s a universal feature.
- First, you’ll need your computer’s IP address. This is how to find it.
- Once you have it, type the IP address into your browser’s address bar. You can then log in with your router’s custom username and password — or the default information if you never set one.
- Once you’re in, check for a list that says DHCP Client or Connected Devices. From there, you’ll see a list of devices currently using your network.
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If you feel like you’re paying an arm and a leg for internet every month, you’re not imagining things. Americans really do pay more for internet service over a lifetime than almost any other country on earth.
Our internet isn’t exactly the fastest or most stable compared to other countries, so why the high costs? It isn’t government-subsidized for starters, and service providers take a decent sized cut of the profit. Tap or click here to see how to reduce your data usage.
SpaceX satellite internet launches - and it'll cost you a pretty penny
How fast is your internet? For many people, the answer is not fast enough. But that might be changing soon thanks to advancements from two corners of the tech industry: 5G and satellite internet.
According to early adopters, 5G is insanely fast — in some cases beating out most home Wi-Fi connections. Tap or click here to see if 5G is available in your area.