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.
Top 5 scam calls and what you can do to get them to finally stop
Most people have an extensive contact list saved on their mobile phones. So, when a call comes through from an unknown number, it usually arouses suspicion. Unfortunately, it is more than likely a robocall or scammer.
If you pick up your phone and see this number, don't answer
Robocalls and spam phone calls will not disappear anytime soon, and unfortunately, there isn’t much that we can do about it. A recent study found that just under 4 billion Americans received such a call in only May this year.
Sick of automated menus and bad customer support? There's a better option!
We’ve all been there — stuck on hold waiting for customer service or technical support. The waits are long, the elevator music is annoying and the person who finally picks up doesn’t seem to have any idea what they’re talking about. It’s a perfect storm of inconvenience.
Internet providers will keep you connected, even if you can't pay your bill
We’re more reliant than ever on the internet to keep up with what’s going on in the world — especially in the face of a global pandemic like what we’re experiencing with the coronavirus.
There is plenty of solid information online to help track the spreading of the virus, along with what to do if you’re feeling symptoms. Tap or click here for ways to get a coronavirus assessment without leaving home.