If your computer does not have WiFi
this is most likely because it is an older laptop
or a desktop PC. Almost all modern-day laptops
come with built-in WiFi, but it was just a perk up
until about 5-years ago. Most desktop style
computers don't come with built-in WiFi because
the manufacturers figure that you aren't going to
be moving it around too much. But as we
know, the manufactures are not always right.
So, you've been eyeballing that free
WiFi hotspot across the street and now you want to
hook-up to it from your house. To get started with
WiFi you will need to get either a PCI WiFi
Card (for desktop PC only) or a USB WiFi
adapter (for desktop or laptop).
PCI WiFi Card
Most any 802.11b or 802.11g PCI card
will work to get connected.
Installation requires opening up your
computer (desktop PC) and inserting the card into
one of the available slots. The card will come
with an antenna that fits onto the card and
protrudes out from the back of your computer
(where all the connectors are located). This is
not always the best setup for WiFi because the
antenna is partially blocked by the computer case
itself. Remember that WiFi signals do not go
through metal. Also, the antenna on the PCI card
is limited to the same location as the computer.
If your computer is not in an ideal location for
receiving WiFi, then you're stuck with bad signal
until you move your computer to a better location.
USB WiFi Adapters
A better solution for getting better
WiFi is to get a USB WiFi adapter. Installation is
easy; just install the software and plug it into
the USB port on the back of your computer. I don't
recommend using the USB ports on the front of your
computer as they have limited power output in some
cases. This is because the are designed for low
power devices like your keyboard
and mouse.
Some USB WiFi adapters (like this one ) have an extra
15' of cable so that you can put it in a better
location for receiving WiFi (like a window). Your
WiFi signal strength will be stronger or "faster"
if you can eliminate obstructions such as walls,
furniture, metal shelves, etc by placing your
antenna in a better location. Another great thing
about USB WiFi adapters is that they can be use
with laptops to get more WiFi reception then the
built-in one.
Connecting to a WiFi Hotspot
Once the WiFi card or adapter is
installed correctly, you can try to connect to the
hotspot. Using the supplied software program that
came with your WiFi card or adapter, you can
"sniff" the air waves for nearby WiFi hotspots.
The results will be displayed and you can choose
to connect to any non-password protected site of
your choice. Once connected, you will have WiFi
internet. If the WiFi hotspot requires a password
then you will not be able to use it, unless you
can find the owners of the hotspot and request
their password. In this case it will be best to
persuade them with a hot apple pie or an agreement
to pay for half of their bill, because they won't
give it away easily.
