3G is an umbrella term that refers to third-generation wireless networks that deliver broadband speeds to cell phones and other mobile devices. With speeds between 144Kbps and 2.4Mbps (near cable modem speed), you can download files, surf the Web, send and receive e-mail, or stream music and video over the cellular networks. With a cellular modem or a 3G phone, you don't have to find discrete hot spots; an entire metropolitan area with a 3G network is essentially a giant hot spot of sorts. There are several flavors of 3G (and 2.5G) to choose from. The two main versions of 3G are UMTS (based on GSM networks) and EVDO (an offshoot of CDMA2000). Speeds for each are comparable, though EVDO is more widely available. Currently, Verizon Wireless is the main provider of EVDO networks, with coverage in about 50 cities and metropolitan areas. Unlimited service costs about $60/month. UMTS is available through Cingular/AT&T Wireless, though only in very limited areas, for roughly $80/month for unlimited access. Cingular/AT&T also provides EDGE networks, which are technically 2.5G cellular technology. EDGE is slower than both UMTS and EVDO, transmitting data at rates of about 90Kbps, which is still faster than dial-up. On the plus side, EDGE networks are more widely available than UMTS, and in fact, Cingular encourages using EDGE networks when outside of their geographically limited UMTS coverage areas.