I have my computer internet with a bigpond usb.

Hi Mal,

You can indeed create a WiFi connection while using your BigPond mobile broadband connection. Typically most people only use a mobile broadband USB modem (called a 'dongle') when they're using a connection that they value for its portability – i.e. something to use on your laptop while out and about. However, for those of us who would like to be able to access our mobile broadband connections on multiple connections, there is a solution: pocket WiFi modems.

Click here for the best pocket WiFi deals.

When you use a pocket WiFi device, you don't need to use the dongle at all. Instead, the pocket WiFi modem will connect to the mobile phone tower where a mobile broadband connection is made, and broadcast the signal. You'll be able to connect to this pocket WiFi modem from a range of internet devices, but be warned that most of them have a limit of devices that you can connect at one time – usually the maximum is around five.

If you don't mind switching from BigPond, you could look about changing to a provider that will be able to give you a pocket WiFi device on a plan – otherwise they can be quite expensive. Try calling:

Vodafone: 1300 106 571
Dodo: 1300 136 793
Optus: 1300 137 897

However, if you are connecting to a lot of devices and mostly want to be able to use your internet connection at home, I'd recommend looking at some ADSL2+ plans. ADSL2+ works through the copper line that goes into your house from the telephone exchange. ADSL2+ connections are faster and more stable than a mobile broadband connection, and particularly if you are connecting more than one device at once, you'll find that with an ADSL2+ connection your speed will be faster and more reliable, with less drop outs and no problems with how many devices you connect at a time.

A WiFi modem is also available for an ADSL2+ connection, and some providers will even give you one for free when you sign up to one of their plans. Others will ask you to buy your own in exchange for a short contract or lower monthly fees – you can either buy it through your provider or in an electronics store. If you buy it on your own, make sure that it is ADSL2+ compatible. The giveaway that it is WiFi if you are unsure will be that it has one or two antenna.

Click here for the best WiFi plans, or call one of the following providers:

TPG: 1300 106 571
Dodo: 1300 136 793
iPrimus: 1300 137 794

I hope this helps, Mal! If you have any further questions about the best WiFi plans or how WiFi works, please don't hesitate to call us on 1300 106 571.

Mikaella.