Scoobychick

iTrader: (1)

I'm new to this so what do I need to know in order to use WiFi Hotspots when I'm out and about on my travels? I've got a Wireless laptop which I'm using on a wireless network at home but I'm yet to venture outdoors with it

Cheers

Sal

mike1210

bottom right of the screen move mouse over the wireless network icon. Should be an option to view all networks, those in range should pop up
should be able to connect unless encrypted or mac filtered

and no using your neighbours connection either

ChrisB

As Mike says, you might find an unsecured connection you can borrow (in a big city you'll probably find no end of wireless networks).

Alternatively, there are a number of official systems like BT Openzone. You have to pay for access through this sort of thing.

ZD have a handy map showing the various networks and where they have hotspots.

class_A

1) In a public hotspot setting, things like WEP and WPA aren't used. Instead, the communication link is unencrypted, but you first "log on" to the connection via a web page (known as a "captive portal") created by the hotspot owner. Therefore, everyone authorised to connect to the network can theoretically see what you're doing unless you encrypt traffic (ie. you are using a secure web site or checking your email with SSL). So don't go entering passwords into web pages which aren't secure (like say the ScoobyNet log in page!) as your data can be sniffed out of the air.

2) Don't pay for WiFi when out and about. Get NetStumbler installed and take your laptop for a drive You'll be suprised at the amount of open networks you find.

Scoobychick

iTrader: (1)

Thanks chaps I've subscribed to BT Openzone and had a look at the handy map of hotspots. I've also had a look around to see if my neighbours have WiFi - they don't unfortunately That NetStumbler looks interesting...

Another question that I would like answered is how do I go about connecting to the t'interweb when I'm not in a hotspot? I've got a 3G phone with infrared so could use that with the lappy but have no idea how to go about it.

JackClark

Try the phone manufacturers web site, they usually have free software you can download. If not try the 3G providers web site, they'll help you use it, it pay the bills.

Scoobychick

iTrader: (1)

I'm with Orange and had a look on their site but couldn't find much at all. I'll try Sony.

Jack do you know if I could use my existing McAfee subscription with my laptop and my home pc? I use it on the pc at the moment, the laptop came with Norton pre-installed so I'm using that for now.

JackClark

You go ahead. Let me know how the products are working for you.