By Michelle Costa

A new Internet service will make hooking up to the web easier.

The WiMAX service was launched in Pocatello last month. This is the second town in Idaho to have the WiMAX service.

Surfing the net is becoming faster and easier. All you have to do is plug in WiMAX's portable modem to the wall, and a cable into your computer. Within two minutes, you're online. Trista Pottenger started using WiMAX in December. She said so far, so good.

"Never have I lost service. My pages have always loaded. Really, it's pretty quick," said Trista Pottenger, WIMAX user.

We caught up with Pottenger in ISU's student union today on her computer. She says a bonus is being able to take the modem with her. Another WiMAX user agrees.

"I'm actually able to take the modem that I have with me like if I'm going to school or if I'm going to work," said Cliff Strupp, BridgeMAXX.

Mayor Chase cut the wire for the new service this week. WIMAX will reach more than 17,000 homes and businesses. Mayor Chase says the City of Pocatello is proud to be among the first places in the U.S. to offer this high speed Internet access.

"The great advantage will be the speed of this system," said Mayor Roger Chase, City of Pocatello.

There are a few stores in Pocatello which sell the WiMAX modem. You can rent them for $4 a month. If you want to use your laptop wirelessly, you can also buy a wireless router.

"It's simple to install, fast, affordable and portable," said Joe Kochan, Vice President of Digital Bridge Communications.

There are many packages for the WiMAX service. The average cost is about $30 a month. For students, like Pottenger, it costs $20 a month. She says another perk is the contract.

"It's a month contract which is great because with roommates coming and going, or when we're gone for the summer, we can always cancel it," said Trista Pottenger, WiMAX user.

WIMAX users can get online anywhere in the BridgeMAXX service area. This new technology breaks the traditional mold of wire-based Internet.

If you would like to sign up for the WiMAX service, you can visit a retailer or log on to bridgemaxx.com. You should be connected to the Internet the same day you purchase the service. This service is currently available in Rexburg and soon to be in Idaho Falls.