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What’s the easiest way to find a Wi-Fi hotspot?
You can plan this from your office by using an online hotspot locator. Click here, then enter the location, and
it will give you a detailed map of where to access Wi-Fi. In any urban area, you’re never far away from a
hotspot.
Do I need any special equipment other than my laptop?
Not at all. All laptops made in the last three years or so are Wi-Fi compatible, so will easily pick up a signal.
Just make sure Wi-Fi function is switched on.
Let’s say I’ve found a hotspot in a coffee shop. What happens next?
If you open up your internet browser, ideally using universal applications like Explorer on a PC or Safari on
a Mac, you will be directed to a welcome screen. If you’re lucky, access may be free in some places, but
often you will have to pay a fee, either by using a voucher bought at the counter or by entering credit card
details.
How much does it cost?
About £5 per hour is the average for one-off access, but you can get cheaper deals if you use hotspots
regularly, or want to take out a monthly subscription with a provider.
If I buy more Wi-Fi time in advance, how do I access it?
You will be given a username and a password.
That sounds easy. But what about the wireless signal? Is it strong enough?
It is normally as fast as a standard broadband connection. But if you experience speed problems or
freezing, contact your provider. You are paying for it, after all.
Will do. What happens if I don’t get a welcome screen or have to find a particular provider?
Look for the icon on your PC near the Start menu - it looks like a computer with three waves coming from it.
Right-click on this, and choose ‘View Available Wireless Networks’. This brings up a list of available
networks in your area. From there you click ‘Connect’ and enter password or network key.
I’ve done this and it’s connected, but what happens if there’s no welcome screen on the internet browser?
Try typing in a familiar web address (e.g. www.google.com). If this doesn’t work, then the signal may be
weak, and you need to move nearer to the access point. Also for public Wi-Fi hotspots, as opposed to
home and office, it is best to open your internet browser window before logging on.
I’ve picked up a Wi-Fi hotspot signal from a hotel, but it keeps cutting out. What might be causing this?
There may be signal interference from all kinds of sources, but one common one is the clash of channels
from cordless phones. If someone is using one in the next room, it may cause problems.
I’m concerned about security. Is Wi-Fi safe?
Wi-fi is more secure now with encryption systems known as WPA or WPA2. But there are some other
standard precautions you should take when using public Wi-Fi hotspots. It’s good to keep your anti-virus
software up-to-date, use a personal firewall, make sure you’re connected to a legitimate access point,
password-protect your computer and important files, and turn off the file-sharing function.
What about sending email? Should I use my normal Outlook or Apple mail?
You can, but if you are not using a business email solution such as Microsoft Exchange you may have to
change the SMTP server setting to send email. If you aren't using Outlook with Exchange, for security
reasons, you may prefer to stick to webmail in a public hotspot.
That’s a certainly a hot tip. I’ll follow that one.
For more information on working with wireless networks and getting online when roaming contact us here.
Also in this issue: Top Tips for Microsoft Word and Excel 2007 and Top Tips for Microsoft Word and Excel 2003
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