NetZero is looking to get back into the free Internet game. The company, which began offering free dial-up access to the Internet in the 90’s, announced it will begin offering free wi-fi access for laptops and tablets.
There’s a catch, however.
In order to get the “free” access, you’ll have to buy a $50 wireless USB card from the company. Users will get 200 MB of wi-fi access per month, which is enough to surf the web and check your e-mail but won’t support streaming content like Netflix or Hulu.
Owners of tablets with no USB port can pay $100 for “a mobile hot spot” that allows up to eight Wi-Fi-equipped devices to connect to the Internet, and provides up to 200 MB of data per month.
Once customers go over the limit, the service will stop until the next month. Plus they’ll get messages encouraging them to switch to more expensive monthly plans.
The “free” plans will last only 12 months, at which point customers will be dropped or required to sign up for other plans — ranging from $9.95 a month for 500 MB to $49.95 for 4 gigabytes.
Mitch from Omaha says
Net Zero still exists? I thought they went the way of the Dodo years ago. Huh.
k9 says
I agree NetWho????
Mike H says
Since I only use mobile internet when out storm chasing for weather info, this may be something I should check into.