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    Wireless Laptop.

    Discussion in 'HP' started by pirates1933, Dec 29, 2004.

  1. pirates1933

    pirates1933 Notebook Enthusiast

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    I have a HP Pavillion Laptop that came all-ready set up for Wireless.
    I was told tnat I can just go to the Library were they are set up for Wireless,and just automatically get connected to Wireless.
    I also was told that I first have to sign up and pay a Company so that I can get connected to Wireless places,like the Library?
    Which one of these statements is true?
    I would appreciate answers from people with practical experience.
    Thanking everyone in advance.
    [?]

    Jimmy
     
    pirates1933, Dec 29, 2004
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  2. Donsell

    Donsell Notebook Evangelist NBR Reviewer

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    Hey Jimmy,

    The answer is it depends. A wireless network is either open or secure. An open network will allow you access to the network assuming that your wireless card is set up to recieve an IP address, which it should be by default.

    A secure network requires either a password, key or the network needs to register the MAC address of your wireless network card before it will allow access.

    Your public library may have an open network. Ours here in Lincoln Nebraska have secure networks and make you use the public terminals available. Most airports now have wireless access though a pay serivice and its really expensive. A lot of bookstores and some resuraunts are starting to offer free acess. Our Barnes and Noble and Penera bread all offer free access.

    So I'd take your notebook to the library and try it. If you can't get on, ask about getting access. Hopefully they won't charge for it.
     
    Donsell, Dec 29, 2004
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  3. thietlong

    thietlong Notebook Consultant

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    There are as much open access points as there are secure. It really depend on what kind of connection are in place. Also in regarding to the library issue, it also depend on the libraries, cuz public libraries may offer open connections, but I for sure know that if you are going to a University, most likely you have to set up an account with them to access their internet to maximum capacity. Good Luck.

    thietlong
     
    thietlong, Dec 31, 2004
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