How To Access Wi-Fi Spots

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a place where Internet access over a wireless LAN is available.  The connection exists with the use of a shared Internet connection and a wireless router.  Wi-Fi hotspots include public places like airports, shopping malls, and coffee shops.  Aside from these, Wi-Fi hotspots are also commonly found at train stations, libraries, hotels, bookstores, and RV parks.  Universities and colleges also provide Wi-Fi access to their registered students and staff.

Most private residences today also install a wireless router and hook it up with their Internet connection to make their home a Wi-Fi hotspot.  However, the connection is usually made secure with the use of a WEP key or security code.  WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy and it prevents eavesdropping and provides confidentiality.  To gain Wi-Fi access as a guest in a friend's home, you will need to ask for the WEP or security key.  You will need to input this in setting up your wireless connection. 

To access free Wi-Fi hotspots in public places, you should be able to see the Wi-Fi Access sign posted within the establishment.  Other shops post a Free Wi-Fi Access sign on their doors or windows.  Providing free Wi-Fi access to customers is an inexpensive way of increasing the number of customers.  Just one wireless router is needed and countless users can share the Internet connection of the whole establishment.  To find a free Wi-Fi hotspot near you, you may want to consult a Wi-Fi hotspot directory available in the Internet. 

There are also commercial Wi-Fi services that will enable you to connect to the Internet.  You may sign up for one of these commercial Wi-Fi services and pay via credit card, PayPal, or other payment services.  You will need to look for the Wi-Fi Access sign of the specific commercial Wi-Fi service that you have signed up for to gain Wi-Fi access.  You can also refer to a Wi-Fi hotspot directory provided by your commercial Wi-Fi service provider.

Roaming Wi-Fi services have become increasingly available as of this moment.  This kind of Wi-Fi service enables registered users to have access to other providers' hotspots for an extra fee.  Users are charged on an access-per-minute basis.

Here are a few things to remember in accessing Wi-Fi hotspots:

1. Use a VPN or virtual private network for extra protection, especially if you are transferring sensitive information.  Wi-Fi hotspots are open unsecured connections.
2. Do not rely too much on signal strength, as it may be intermittent at times.  Remember that you are sharing the Internet bandwidth with countless other users.  This is especially true for free Wi-Fi access hotspots.
3. Some hotspots may not allow you to access specific sites that they have identified as restricted.  SafeSurf software may be installed in their servers.
4. Do not expect to get technical support from the staff of the establishment.  Chances are, they are not computer literate or Internet savvy. 
5. Electrical outlets may be limited in a Wi-Fi hotspot.  Always charge your gadget or bring spare batteries.