Well, there's confusion in terms, in the use of the word "wireless." When you speak of "wireless Internet" (as opposed to a wireless networks) I think the term refers to wireless modems that do indeed take their Internet signal from wireless telephone providers (and I believe "wireless Internet" operates on the same wave bands and would use similar antennas). Aluminum foil reflectors are supposed to be somewhat effective in increasing signal strength in fringe areas. I'm trying to imagine holding my cellphone up to my ear, somehow manipulating that tinfoil reflector so I can hear and still pick up the signal.

There are also cellphone signal boosters for fringe areas, in a wide spectrum of prices. Some are useless gimmicks, and some may actually work.

-Joe-