In the era of laptops and smartphones what you really need are hotspots. Many cafés in Zurich have free Wi-fi. There is even a free outdoor Wi-fi at Limmatquai, between Central and Rudolf-Brun Brücke - simply connect your device and follow the instructions.

You can also simply rent the tiny pocket device Travelers Wifi and you'll have an unlimited and speedy 4G/LTE data connection in all of Switzerland. Order it here: www.travelerswifi.com. And you will find the Wi-fi providers Monzoon and Swisscom all over the city. All you need to connect to them is a credit card. Prices are rather high.