Here's what you need to know (and do) to connect your laptop to a wireless network and get Internet access.

First off, let's talk common sense. Before you access any wireless network, especially one in a public place, you must have anti-virus software installed and up-to-date on your laptop. Your laptop should also be current with all Windows Operating System Updates.

That said, the next thing you need is to have a laptop with wireless networking capabilities. If youre not sure whether yours does, do the following to check it out:

1. Click on Start | Connect To | Show all connections, or
2. Click on Start | Settings | (Control Panel) | Network Connections

3. Under "LAN or High-Speed Internet" you should see a wireless connection icon. (If not, see below about installing a wireless network card).

   Assuming you have wireless capabilities, continue on doing the following:

4. Right-click on the wireless connection icon.

5. In the pop-up menu, select "View Available Wireless Networks."

6. In the "Wireless Networking Connection" window, click on the appropriate wireless network.

7. Check the box that says "Allow me to connect to the selected wireless network."

8. An icon in the lower right hand corner of your desktop should eventually appear stating that you are connected.

9. Open your browser and visit any website you want. If authentication is required on the wireless network, you will be redirected automatically to a login page where you'll have to log in using an approved Network User Name/ID and the correct password.

That's all it takes.

Note: If your laptop does not already have built-in wireless networking, you will need to purchase and install, or have installed, a Wireless Networking Card. There are many brands of wireless networking cards. Just make sure you buy a card that is 802.11b or 802.11g compatible. Linksys cards are an excellent choice and I recommend them highly. If you choose another brand, be certain that the card is WiFi Certified. (For a list of 802.11b and 802.11g certified cards, please visit the WiFi Alliance website.)