How to See the Wireless Sign-on Page at the Coffee Shop

Ever been at the local coffee shop with your laptop - but can't seem to see their wireless sign-on page? Let's go over some tips and tricks for this common issue!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Laptop - wireless enabled
• Wireless Hotspot

1. First, power up your computer at the wireless hotspot of your choice (coffee shop, restaurant, etc.). If you are able to see the wireless hotspot, but just have trouble seeing the log-on page, please continue. If your PC does not recognize the wireless network, please check back for another article on seeing wireless networks.
2. Launch your browser (internet explorer, firefox, etc.) and wait for the page to load (or fail, as the case may be). If it loads, you're done! If you get a 'Page Not Found' or similar error - continue on!
3. The fastest way to force your page to find the current site is to type the following web address into the browser address bar: www.cnn.com
   
   It's a nifty little trick - CNN's web site will force your browser to renew the page, and therefore look for an IP address.
   
   If successful - it's not CNN's page you will see (unless the wireless internet hotspot you are in doesn't require you to sign in or agree to terms of use). You should see the wireless hotspot's home page. You may now log in to the site or agree to the terms of use if it is a free site.

Tips & Warnings

• Many free hotspots exist. Check out Jiwire.com to find wireless hotspots wherever you are going.
• Hotspots that charge you for use are usually cheaper by the month, but many offer 'day passes' (such as T-Mobile at Starbucks).