Backup Dial-up Access Providers?

Looking for basic dial-up access while on the road, etc.

[clearpixel]

I am looking for a basic dial-up account I can use while on the road, usuability testing and when I am generally out of the office. I currently have AOL, but have too much difficulty sending mail via Outlook (even if using my own mail server). I am considering Netscape ($10/mo.) and NetZero/Juno ($10/mo. or $15/mo. with accelerated access). Anyone have any experience with these or alternate ideas? I am also considering (in addition to or in lieu of) signing up for Sprint's wireless access ($40/mo. for 20MB of transfer/mo. or $60 for 40MB of transfer/mo. - each charges an extra $0.01 per KB overage). Anyone have any recommendations? Thanks!

[bakedjake]

T-Mobile's high-speed hotspot access is $20/mo. If your travels are generally major cities, you'll be very satisfied with the service.

They're pretty much installed wherever a Starbucks is present, and in some Barnes and Noble stores as well, so the coverage is awesome for a high-speed network.

If you really want dial-up, SBC's network has always been good to me.

[clearpixel]

T-mobile's plan does look compelling - they also have a $6 minimum monthly for 60 minutes with $0.10 per minute after that. My only question is one of connectivity in hotels, etc. Also, correct me if i am wrong, but you don't need a proprietary PCS card, right? I can get something that would work with a home network if I wanted to set one up as well, correct?

[bakedjake]

No, I was speaking of their WiFi service - you know, standard 802.11b stuff.

They do have a GPRS plan for $20/mo. unlimited as well, which you can use from your laptop to your celly if your laptop/celly support bluetooth or some sort of cable connection.

But if you'll be doing major cities, go with the WiFi plan.

[kaled]

In the UK only, you may use the following number - you are billed as a local call. I use it to test page access times occaisionally and when my cable modem is down.

0845 028 8888 : simply make up any username and password.

The company website is [freewire.co.uk...]

I believe they are part of a group called Mistral these days but I'm not certain.

Kaled.

[vkaryl]

If you REALLY want dialup instead of going wifi, look into highstream.net. Great coverage (has to be, I live in the back of beyond and have a local free number!), and $8.95 a month. Been with them 5 years or so, never had a problem with them....

I do still have an AOL/CS account that I reactivate sometimes when I'm seriously out in an oddball area - as to their wackiness with mail programs, I just use webmail....