Wi-Fi hotspots Setting up Wi-Fi with Windows XP or Vista
1Prepare the connection
Once at the location, switch on your laptop's Wi-Fi and search for the hotspot.
The easiest way to do this is to click on the network icon near the clock at the end of your Windows taskbar and select Connect to a Network (if you're using Windows Vista) or View Available Wireless Networks (if you're using Windows XP).
2Choose the network
You should now see a list of the Wi-Fi networks within range of your laptop.
Make sure you choose the right one, or you may log on by mistake to an unsecured wireless network being operated from someone's home or business. This could open you up to a possible security risk.
If you’re using BT, T-Mobile or The Cloud services, the name of the network should be standard (BTOpenzone, tmobile and either mycloud or WiFi Zone respectively). Double-click on it to connect.
3Troubleshooting - set up a Wi-Fi connection manually
If you can't see the connection listed, don't panic. First, try setting up the connection manually.
In Vista click Set up a Connection or Network >Manually Connect to a Wireless Network.Type in the name of the network (eg. tmobile) > No Authentication (Open) (next to Security Type) > Next.
In XP, click Change Advanced Settings > Wireless Networks > Add.Again, type in the network name > Open (next to Network Authentication) > OK.
4Troubleshooting - Wi-Fi connection problems
If you can see the network but can’t connect, click the Start button > Control Panel > Network Connections in XP, or Control Panel > View Network Status and Tasks > Manage Network Connections in Vista.
Right-click on the icon for your wireless device and select Properties.
Click Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) or Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IP v4) > Properties.
Ensure both Obtain an IP address automatically and Obtain DNS Server automatically are ticked > click OK.
5Enter your details
Once you're connected, you need to enter your details. How you do this will depend on the hotspot or provider – don't be afraid to ask the proprietor for details if you need them.
You’ll almost certainly need a username and a password or, if you're a first-time user and haven't bought a voucher, you may be asked to pay a subscription or for the number of minutes you want to spend online.
Note down and enter any details you are given, and enter them when prompted.
6Browse the internet
If you've bought a voucher or you're subscribing to a service with a limited number of minutes, make sure you log off when you have finished.
Even if you have bought only an hour of use, certain T-Mobile or BT Openzone vouchers will allow you to log in again and use remaining minutes later in the day.
Monthly vouchers are valid for unlimited use within the specified period.
7Log off when you're done
If you've bought a voucher or you're subscribing to a service with a limited number of minutes, make sure you log off when you have finished.
Even if you have bought only an hour of use, certain T-Mobile or BT Openzone vouchers will allow you to log in again and use remaining minutes later in the day.
Monthly vouchers are valid for unlimited use within the specified period.