How to Access Free Wireless

Access the Internet on the fly.

Wireless internet access can allow you to surf the Internet quickly and just about anywhere. With built-in access in a laptop or through a wireless access card plugged into your PC card slot, you can surf on the fly and at no cost. A few simple precautions will ensure that your WiFi connection is secure and your surfing is worry-free.

Things You'll Need

• Wireless internet access hotspot
• Laptop with built-in wireless connectivity (or wireless Internet PC card)

Instructions

1. Find a WiFi hotspots (Internet access zones) that is convenient to you. Locations that commonly offer WiFi incude coffee shops, airports, hotels and and libraries. Highway rest stops are beginning to offer free WiFi, and it's also available on some public transportation.

2. Call ahead if you know where you will be when you need access, or look your location up at a site like wififreespot.com, a website with a regularly updated list of available wireless internet access points organized by location.

3. Check in with the staff where you want to use free WiFi. You may need a password or be expected to make a purchase. This precaution will also ensure that you are not mistakenly connecting to the computer or network of a potential identity thief who is masquerading as a free WiFi provider. Some places like Starbucks provide reloadable cards that earn free WiFi time as you accumulate purchases.

4. Be sure that you connect to a WiFi network that is a hotspot and not "ad-hoc," meaning peer-to-peer sharing with another computer. These connections are not secure and should be avoided. Turn off your file sharing option if you have one, and be sure that your wireless connection icon shows an antenna or one computer, not two computers.

5. When you are connected, remember that you are not on a secure connection.This may not be the best place to do your online shopping or banking. If you are accessing work-related networks or email, use a virtual private network (VPN) to ensure that your connection is secure.

References

• WiFi Planet
• WiFi Free Hotspots

Resources

• How to: Surf Safely at Public Hotspots