Asus Preloads Boingo Wi-Fi Software on Eee PC Netbooks

By Geoff Duncan January 19, 2010

Netbooks are all about portable connectivity, so it’s sort of surprising that so few netbooks ship with any sort of capability to latch onto anything but wide-open public hotspots. Computer maker Asus looks to change that, announcing it is preloading Boingo access software on selected Eee PC netbooks—and Asus customers also qualify for discounts on Boingo wireless service. Boingo membership provides access to more than 125,000 Wi-Fi hotspots around the world, including airports, major hotels, coffee shops, cafes, and other locations.

ASUS Eee PC 1201N — Image used with permission by copyright holder

For now, Asus is rolling the software into its Asus Eee PC 1005PE, 1008P, and 1201N netbooks; it plans to bring the software to other models soon.

“With its simple-to-use software and global Wi-Fi service, Boingo is the perfect fit for ASUS Eee PC users, who are accustomed to a user-friendly, highly intuitive computing experience,” said Asus product marketing manager James Tung, in a statement.

Whether customers will see the Boingo software as a benefit or as so-called “crapware” remains to be seen. However, Asus’ deal does enable customers to get half off the first three months of Boingo Unlimited service; that normally runs $9.95 per month in the Americas, so that translates to just under a $15 benefit. Customers can also get half off the first month of a Boingo Global account; those run $59 per month for world wide Wi-Fi access.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

PC

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Geoff Duncan writes, programs, edits, plays music, and delights in making software misbehave. He's probably the only member…

Computing

How to get Wi-Fi access anywhere at any time

The Netgear Nighthawk AXE11000 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E Router on a table.

If you can't get Wi-Fi access at home, you're probably wondering what your options are or even if you have any options. You do! Your options for Wi-Fi access will vary depending on your own personal situation, but our guide below will show you what kinds of Wi-Fi access is available to you, should you find yourself without Wi-Fi at home.
Let's take a look at some free and paid ways to get Wi-Fi access.

If driving/commuting is an option

Computing

Best router deals: Save on mesh networks and Wi-Fi 6 routers

The Netgear Nighthawk AXE11000 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E Router on a table.

Strangely enough, routers have had a huge technological bump in the last few years due to the number of devices that need to be connected to the internet. That's one of the main aspects of the new Wi-Fi 6, a standard that not only increases speeds and quality of the connection but addresses the issue with ten devices or more needing to connect to the internet constantly without impacting quality. To that end, if you haven't upgraded your router or mesh network in three to five or more years but are increasingly buying more smart-home products, grabbing a modern router with the latest technology is probably a good idea.

Best Router Deals

Computing

These are the best Wi-Fi routers for 2023

Netgear's Nighthawk RAXE500 tri-band router.

If you are looking to improve your wireless network speeds, then you should probably think about upgrading your router, especially if you indulge in streaming high-definition videos or online gaming. Going for a new router model can also help enhance the extent of wireless coverage, thus allowing seamless usage throughout your home or office space. Among the options available, we particularly recommend Netgear's Nighthawk RAXE300, which impressively combines a plethora of features.

In addition to our top pick, we've reviewed and compared some of the latest router models to curate a selection of the finest Wi-Fi routers currently on the market. Have a look at our recommendations below to gain insights into which device aligns best with your requirements. Whether you're seeking a Wi-Fi 6 router, a budget-conscious alternative, or the ultimate choice for gaming, we have your preferences covered.