Cell Phones

            As cellular phones have become more prevalent in our everyday lives the costs associated with them has fluctuated.  It is now cheaper than ever to acquire the initial service and device.  However, the cost of the service required to operate the device is growing.  Cell phone companies have realized profits come easier by essentially giving away phones and banking on the fees from the use of it.  The offering of more costly services, such as mobile internet, also adds to their profits.

Security

            Since nothing is ever entirely secure we need to consider what and how we send our sensitive information.  There is no way to tell who is tapping into your communication or what their intentions may be.  This is why we all must use caution when sending information that is sensitive.  There are precautions that we can use, such as encryption, and should use when sending the information.  However, it may not be practical to encrypt everything, so we must assess the need of security for the information we send.

What technology do you use to 'stay in touch' and why?

            I use a variety of technology to stay in touch.  I use internet services such as Skype, E-mail, Face Book, and instant messaging.  These all have a place in my communication.  Skype comes in handy for video calls.  E-mail is used when I want to send a somewhat more formal message.  Face Book is something that I regrettably got sucked into but still has its uses.  Instant messaging comes in handy while working online and doesn’t require a lot of attention to operate.  These all require an internet connection, and that goes into another layer of technology.

            In my home I use a wireless connection on my laptop to connect to my router.  My router uses DSL for a broad band connection.  I decided on DSL as it offered enough speed for me and was marketed at the right price.

            Another form of technology I use is a cell phone.  It is a smart phone so I have various uses for it.  Of course I use it for calls, which is convenient.  Text messaging is another thing I use every day.  It is very convenient to send text instead of talking.  The navigation also comes in handy on my phone on long trips.  It was easier to get a phone with navigation than to buy another piece of electronics that is only for navigation.  I also access the internet on my phone.  This is mostly done to read emails or check the weather.