How? Laptop for wi-fi hot zones

[PhilBy]

I'm off to Canada on Monday and I have just bought a acer Travelmate 5520/5520 series laptop for the trip. This is my first laptop and has come with Vista business pre-installed. My question is how or what do I do so I can make use of wi-fi hotspots?
Also, will my old ntl (now virgin media) instalation software disc work with Vista? By installing a cable modem connection would this interfere with the wi-fi connection?

Many thanks in advance (Wish I asked for XP)!

Phil.

[ChuckFickens]

To use a wireless hotspot simply browse for wireless networks when your in range of one, select the hotspot and if it is not a free one enter the number from the hotspot voucher you'll will have to buy.

You probably won't even need to install any software on your computer at all to use the virgin cable modem, just plug it in using the network cable and turn on your PC and it will work.

[Ethel]

To use hotspots you have to ensure your wifi is enabled - mine has an amber light at the front which is also a switch to toggle wireless on and off.

Some hotspots are free - just log on, and others you have to pay for.

This may help you find the hotspots:
http://www.wi-fihotspotlist.com/browse/ca/

[ACtheTROLL]

's not quite that simple with Vista
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista /features/networking.aspx

with bt openzone you simply search for wireless networks ...
select openzone .... open your browser
and you'll get the openzone sign on screen (it's free but you have to register)
If you have a bt internet connection and or subscribe to fon
all your connections are free
http://www.btfon.com/ here ...
and round the world
http://www.fon.com/en/info/whatsFon
you'll extend the number of free connections available even if no-one uses yours.

costa coffee is found on most motorway services ... and they offer free hotspot access to everyone...
spend half an hour on the services and make sure you know what you're doing before you lug your machine half way round the world