Server not found, despite strong signal

Hi, I've been using wireless internet with my Compaq Presario for a long time. I used to have a home connection that I used it with, as well as using it at local hot spots.

However, after getting rid of my home network, and not using wireless for a couple of months, now when I try to connect at hotspots, it doesn't work. The wireless detector turns on, and shows me all the networks within range. But even if I've got a strong signal connection, I can't access the internet, I just get a message saying that the server cannot be found. I've tried adjusting the settings on the Windows Firewall a bit, including making sure that Firefox is not blocked, but no luck. Any ideas?

 

Well since you are trying to connect to others networks they maybe blocking you out from using them or they may require a proxy.

 

May be you had static ip at home, but at a hot spot they normally have DHCP, so make sure that you have "obtain IP automatically" option on your wireless adapter, same thing for the DNS.

 

have you tried a ping command to see if you can ping websites

 

I don't see why I would get blocked at hot spots?? It's not illegal!

How would I do this?

 

go to start

type in

ping (hostname) or Ping (IP address).

 

not putting you down...don't take this as a condescending attitude...but...Google is your friend...just type ping commands...and search...type in cmd or (command prompt commands)...and search...take the effort to scientifically help yourself...you'll learn a lot this way...and you'll be doing it firsthand...giving you a sense of self-satisfaction...this will also help you in building your confidence as how to tackle computer problems...you'll feel like a C+ Wiz in no time...i mean this with the best intentions...that's how most of us learn to solve our PC problems...won't be no time at all...and you'll be the one giving answers

regards

A#1

 

Did oyu verify if you have "obtain IP automatically" option on your wireless adapter, same thing for the DNS?

 

just some things to try...1. control panel/network connections/view available wireless networks/delete any networks listed...this is just an educated guess...there may be issues with over congestion in your wireless NIC...2. uninstall/wireless NIC though/right click my computer/choose hardware tab/device manager/uninstall wireless NIC/restart PC/re-install wireless NIC (if you don't have the driver available find and d/l first, find the newest driver version)repost if neither of these suggestion help...