Wi-Fi Tip: Find the Hotspot

I got email from a blog reader who asked that I add a Wi-Fi tip with each post. I don't know if I'll do it every time, but I like the idea. Thanx 'Chris in Ohio'. Wi-Fi is only available in 'Hot-Spots'. If you've ever used Wi-Fi for Internet Access, this may be obvious, but I've found that people are confused. I believe it's an advertisement for Centrino, that shows someone on Mt. Everest with his laptop having an instant message conversation with his daughter in the US. The message: "With wireless technology, you can connect to the Internet without wires, anywhere." What they don't show you is the powerful satellite dishes set up right next to camp that are making the Internet connection possible. You must have at least one broadband connection (DSL, Cable, T1, or satellite) before you can have a Wi-Fi 'hotspot'. Usually a hotspot only covers about 300 sq ft - the size of a coffee shop or a room in the library or a hotel. You must be physically within that hotspot in order to connect to the Internet. RV parks are a special case and we're pushing the technology to make it cover a larger area. Hotspots are popping up more and more. If you really want to use one, you can find one nearby. Check out this directory at jiwire.com