How do I Connect to Free WiFi in San Antonio?

Wi-Fi locations can be found across San Antonio.

Connecting to a free Wi-Fi hotspot has become very simple. San Antonio, like most major metropolitan locations, has many available Wi-Fi locations to connect to the Internet. The best news is that even if you can't specifically find a spot, many major national chains offer free wireless Internet hotspots in cities.

Things You'll Need

• Laptop or phone with wireless capabilities

Instructions

Wi-Fi Search

1. Find a nearby Wi-Fi connection. If you have Internet access before going out and about in San Antonio, a site such as JiWire.com is a terrific resource. If you are unable to access the Internet in advance, McDonald's, Barnes & Noble, Starbucks and Panera Bread have hotspots at most locations around the country.

2. Search by zip code or address to find a location nearest you. On JiWire, you would click "Global Wi-Fi Finder" and then select "Find Wi-Fi Locations" in the upper right-hand corner. Click on the map of North America and zoom to San Antonio or simply type San Antonio in the search bar. You will see a populated list of locations with free and paid hotspots.

3. Pick your desired location from the list. The list will provide an address, map and directions.

4. Ask an employee or manager for the location's network ID and, if applicable, security code. Typically most free Wi-Fi connections are unsecured, meaning there will be no passcode required.

5. View all available wireless connections within your computer's range. With Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7, simply locate the network connection icon and view available networks. This icon is usually found in the lower right-hand corner of your task bar. Windows 7 should automatically list all available connections.

6. Connect your computer to the location's Wi-Fi network by highlighting the network ID given to you by the employee and press "Connect." If there was a passcode, you will need to enter that when prompted. At this point, your notification area should show you as connected to the Internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Hotspots with a lot of users might have slower connections due to lower bandwidth. Finding a location with fewer people may increase your Internet speed.

• Unsecured connections can be a security risk to your privacy and your computer, so use caution.

• The Terms & Conditions of most wireless hotspots prohibit the use of illegal activities and possibly other objectionable usage.

References

• JiWire: WiFi Finder
• Microsoft: Windows XP Connection
• Microsoft: Windows Vista Connection
• 7tutorials: Windows 7 Connection
• WiFi Free Spot