Mobile technology

Mobile technology

Advantages and disadvantages of
mobile technology

Mobile technology is exactly what the name implies -
technology that is portable. Examples of mobile IT devices

include:
laptop, tablets and netbook computers
'smart phones'
global positioning system (GPS) devices
wireless debit/credit card payment terminals
Mobile devices can be enabled to use a variety of
communications technologies, including:
wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) - a type of wireless local area
network technology
Bluetooth - connects mobile devices wirelessly
'third generation' (3G), 'fourth generation' (4G), global
system for mobile communications (GSM) and
general packet radio service (GPRS) data services -
data networking services for mobile phones
dial-up services - data networking services using
modems and telephone lines
virtual private networks - secure access to a private
network
It is therefore possible to network the mobile device to a
home office or the internet while travelling.
Advantages of mobile technologies
Mobile computing can improve the service you offer your

customers. For example:
when meeting with customers, you could access your
customer relationship management system - over the
internet - allowing you to update customer details
whilst away from the office
you can enable customers to pay for services or
goods without having to go to the till, eg by using a
wireless payment terminal diners can pay for their
meal without leaving their table
Powerful solutions can link you directly into the office
network while working off site. For example, you could

remotely:
set up a new customer's account
check prices and stock availability
place an order online
The growth of cloud computing has also impacted
positively on the use of mobile devices, supporting more
flexible working practices by providing services over the
internet. For more information, see cloud computing .
Disadvantages of mobile technologies
There are costs involved in setting up the equipment and
training required to make use of mobile devices. Mobile IT
devices can expose valuable data to unauthorised people
if the proper precautions are not taken to ensure that the
devices, and the data they can access, are kept safe. See
more on cyber security for business and securing your
wireless systems .