Free wifi still hard to find in Raeford

Wireless internet available at many businesses in larger cities

Staff Report

Raeford businesses that offer free wireless internet for their customers are hard to find. Many businesses in larger cities now offer "free wifi" as a way to draw more customers. For example, the Biggs Park Mall in Lumberton announced this week that free wireless internet access is now available at their food court. Customers can surf the internet, keep in touch with the office, or complete online school assignments.

Increasingly, people are carrying their laptops with them when they leave their homes or offices. In addition, the use of mobile phones with wireless internet capability has become more widespread.

While some businesses, such as Starbucks and Barnes & Noble, charge fees for internet access through a service provider such as AT&T or T-Mobile, most customers search for businesses that provide free internet access.

Many travelers, especially young professionals, check online for businesses that offer internet access before they make long trips. One of the most popular websites providing this type of information, www.wififreespot.com, allows you to click on the name of the state you are driving through to identify cities and businesses that offer free wireless internet. In addition, you can often click on the name of the business to get key information, such as hours of operation or directions. It is a clear advantage for a business if their website can show how to access the business easily from a busy street or highway.