Making the Most of Free Internet Access

Use free Internet to help your business save money and bring in customers

As a business owner, you probably don't use a free Internet provider as your main Internet service. However, there are still ways you can take advantage of free Internet using many business models. Businesses that have traveling employees or many customers visiting the business have the best chance of using these ideas.

Tips for making the most of free Internet access in your business include:

1. Look for free Internet service providers and Wi-Fi hotspots to save money on Internet costs while traveling;

2. Take advantage of your customers' desire for free Internet by providing free Wi-Fi services;

3. And find ways to make your paid Internet pay for itself by saving money on Internet phone services and other free Internet services.

Learn the features and limitations of free dial-up Internet

There are only a few national businesses that provide free Internet access. Most of these providers limit the service to personal accounts, so you may only be able to take advantage of this when traveling. If you re-locate, you may find a promotion where you get free or lower-cost fees for the first few months of a paid Internet service. Look for more ways to save by reading about low-cost and free Internet access providers.

Find Internet access for free via Wi-Fi for business travel

If you travel out of town, look for airports and hotels that offer free Internet, so you can stay connected without paying extra. Some hotels require an Ethernet cable, so bring one along on overnight trips just in case. For local travel, stay connected with Wi-Fi hotspots in local restaurants and coffee shops, using your smart phone or laptop computer.

Provide Wi-Fi Internet service for free or for pay on your business premises

Bring in more customers and encourages existing customers to stay longer by providing Wi-Fi services for those who visit your business. Patrons can surf the Net while eating at your restaurant, or use it to pass the time while waiting in your waiting room. Depending on your business model, you can offer this as a free or pay service.

• Think of providers of free Internet service as a way to save money on Internet when out of the office, rather than a substitute to the paid Internet service you have in your office.

Copyright © 2013 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---