London - It could be the ideal solution for those unfortunate souls who have to dangle halfway out of their kitchen window to get even the faintest of internet connections on their laptop.
Experts say online users could soon be issued with a miniature mast in each individual home to transmit more powerfully the wi-fi signals needed for wireless internet access.
The plan for mini-masts - similar in size to a paperback book - comes amid fears that the UK’s wireless network could soon overload thanks to an increasing reliance on gadgets including computers and smartphones.
The issue has already begun to affect hotels and student halls of residence, where the increased demand results in complaints about slower internet speeds.
In a move that will only intensify the battle between broadband internet providers, Virgin Media plans to offer customers the personal wireless signal to increase capacity and create the highest possible broadband speed.
The mini-masts, known as femtocells or nanocells, would have a range of up to 100 metres and could be plugged into living rooms and studies, or used in offices to provide coverage over a wide area at higher power. - Daily Mail