What do people do if they don't have home with fi service? What is the alternative?

Alternatives to home WiFi service

Getting WIFI is cheap BUT you must have Internet service, maybe that is what you meant. I will assume you do have internet, you posted using it. You just need a router. I see them at Goodwill all the time for $10 or less. WIFI is not internet, it just takes an internet signal and broadcasts it in your house or business. Some cities have free WIFI through pole based routers. I do not need a separate router, Comcast Modem has one built in. Check with your internet provider. Craigslist has about 500 routers on the local Atlanta site, starting at $5

The alternative is to go look for wifi out in public.

Does anyone use WiFi apps in lieu of home WiFi?

The app only works IF you have open free WIFI in the area. It does not give you in house WIFI. Don't you have a home computer? How are you posting?

I have a mobile hotspot with my cell phone but that's only 8 GB which is OK for posting checking emails but not so good for streaming Netflix and you tube etc.

You're better at all this than I am, Debbs63! When I hit 70, I sort of gave up learning new technologies. Didn't really mean to.