Originally Posted by
jbalmuth
Many thanks for your very clear explanation!
Does this device therefore only work in one's room (where there's a wired network connection)? For example, if I'm in the lobby or in the lounge or out at the pool, does this means that my wifi enabled smartphone won't be able to use the hotel's wifi system? I'm not complaining (the gadget only costs $20) .... I'm just trying to understand. TIA!
A personal travel router plugs into a wired connection (typically you will only be allowed to do this in your room) and broadcasts its own wireless signal that you can connect to when you are in range. It doesn't allow you to use the hotel's wireless connection.
The range of a wireless router is typically a few hundred feet, and that is severely limited by structural elements like walls and floors. For all practical purposes, you will only be able to connect from your own room, or perhaps the room next door if you have adjoining rooms.
However, some internet systems give you a "roaming password" that allows you to make use of the hotel's wireless connection (for example, in the lobby or by the pool) when you're not using your in-room connection. This roaming connection is good for one device at a time.