A worldwide study into computer purchasing patterns has shown that Wi-Fi is the most important technology for today's buyers.

The survey of over 9,000 computer users in 18 countries by Ipsos MORI found that wireless connectivity is the most important consideration, beating enhanced processing power, portable connectivity and even the internet.

Half of all UK respondents also said that wireless is the technology most likely to increase productivity.

"Work priorities such as the need for flexible working and mobile access to information are combining with an acceptance of wireless from the workplace and filtering down to our homes," said Marcus Harvey, director of the consumer printer division at Lexmark, which sponsored the research.

"Eight out of 10 people cite flexibility and mobility as the main benefit of wireless, and this is exactly what people want from their home computing experience.

"There is only so much more power people need from their processors. The priorities are now about working smarter, not faster."

The survey found that six out of 10 people had wireless technology at home, half of whom are using it to connect to a printer without the need for cables.