How to Use a WiFi Signal
The wonderful thing about WiFi is that it is accessible nearly anywhere from any device with a wireless adapter. The term WiFi stands for Wireless Fidelity and is used to denote compatibility between wireless devices. If you have a WiFi-compatible device, you can access the Internet or connect to another WiFi device from wherever you can receive a signal.
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Instructions
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Turn on your device. Whether you have a cell phone, PDA or computer with a with a wireless adapter, the device must be on to receive the signal.
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Ensure your wireless adapter is on. On some devices with built-in wireless adapters, you have the power to turn wireless connectivity on or off. One example of why you might need this is if you are flying on an airplane and want to use your laptop computer without the wireless features. Refer to your device documentation to determine what the correct way is to turn a built-in adapter on and off.
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Search for a signal. Some devices automatically search for a wireless signal (which is why you need to turn off the adapter when you fly on an airplane), while others must be told to do so. If you have a wireless menu or "Settings" panel, select "Search for wireless networks" from the list and wait while your device seeks out a signal.
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Select a wireless signal to connect to. Your device should display a list of all available signals in the area. Some may be secure signals and others may be unsecured. Your device should list the security of each signal. Unsecured signals are generally available to everyone who connects to them, so it's best to choose one of these unless you have a security code. Once you've selected the signal, click or select "Connect" on your device.
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Wait for your device to acquire the signal. Your device will now try to acquire and log on to the signal you've selected. It may take a few moments for your device to acquire an IP address to access the Internet. If you've selected a secured signal, you will now be prompted for a security key such as a WEP, WPA or WPA2 standardized encryption. The number of characters in the password is determined by the protocol. If you are in a business like a hotel or coffee shop and connect to their secure network, often they will provide you with the appropriate passcode. You may have to ask for it at the counter or front desk; or if you are attempting to connect to another WiFi device like a gaming system or laptop, the owner will provide you with the correct code.
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Input the security code. If you've connected to a secure network, input the security code into the dialogue box and click "OK" or "Connect", depending on your device. Once the code is input correctly, your device will log on to the network and you will be able to access the Internet or connect to another device.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have trouble connecting and you know you've input the correct security code, reset your wireless adapter. This could solve the problem.
On Windows computers, you will have the option to Troubleshoot and Repair wireless problems when right-clicking on the wireless icon at the bottom of your screen.
Logging onto an unsecured network could give other users access to personal information transmitted over the signal. Use with caution.
