Internet Connections while travelling

[Graham H]

I know this is probably an old question and; something probably so simple that I am classed as a complete dumbo but...

I have a company Dell laptop which I travel round with. I don't seem to be able to connect to the internet using these wireless access points in airports or hotels. Neither do I seem to be able to get in using the data points in the hotel rooms.

What am I not doing? Doing wrong? Or not setting up correctly?

[Ethel]

It is unusual for these wifi hotspots to be free.

You normally have to use a service like this to get access:

http://www.btopenzone.com/

Here is a useful report:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/4758722. stm

[Graham H]

Thanks for your prompt response Ethel.

I have found a number of hotels here in the UK and on the continent offering free wire-less access. All well and good if only I could connect. My laptop recognises the wireless network but when I click either on IE or via my ISP (AOL) I can't get on.

I would think it is a case of having to change some settings but as I said being a complete no-hope I don't know where to start.

[Ethel]

Do you use wireless at home? Have you EVER connected to a wireless source?

What happens when you start IE at these hotspots?

How do you know you are connected?

Sorry for so many questions - it's answers you're after.

[Ethel]

I found this thay may be helpful:

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/intouch/wirele sshotspot.mspx

[wideboy]

Try this:-

Go into Control Panel

Choose Network & Internet connections (or Network in Classic view)

Click on Network connections

Right click on the connection (wireless or cable)

Choose Properties

Choose Internet protocol (TCP/IP)

Choose Properties

Now make sure that both options to obtain addresses automatically are on

(If there are any numbers in the boxes - write them down so as to restore them later if you need to connect to a corporate or home network).