Not sure if there's a
WiFi hotspot near you? Of course, your notebook PC will indicate when you're in range of a wireless network. But if you want advance notice of what's available, or are traveling and need Internet access, you can check out a list of available public hotspots at:
Wi-FiHotspotList or
Jiwire. Both sites let you search for hotspots by address, zip code, city, or state.
It's a fair bet, however, that most coffeehouses and hotels offer some form of wireless Internet access. Service ranges from free to free with conditions to strictly paid access.
Most users would agree that the best access is free access. You'll find many hotel chains, some local coffeehouses and restaurants, and even some municipalities offering totally free
WiFi. In some instances, the service is advertising supported, which means you might see an initial log-on screen filled with advertisements, or even have an ad frame forced into the top or bottom of your browser. In any case, once you're connected, you won't have to pony up money to surf.
What you may have to do, however, is log on or register. For example, the
WiFi service offered at some major hotel chains is free, but only to hotel guests. You'll probably be issues an ID or password when you check into your room; just enter this information when you first log onto the
WiFi service.
A log-in screen is mandatory when free wireless service comes with a catch. For example, the Caribou Coffee chain offers one hour of free access per day, but after that requires a password to log on for additional hours of service. To obtain a password, you have to buy a drink -- one drink per hour, if you want to keep connected. When you make your purchase, the Caribou staffer hands you a small card with the password written on it; each password is good for an hour's worth of Internet service. You'll have to return to the log-on screen and enter the new password to resume surfing.
Finally, many
WiFi hotspots offer paid access only. To access these hotspots, you must either enter your credit card number for limited access (typically for the day or the hour), or subscribe to a monthly access plan. For example, the Starbucks Coffee chain offers
WiFi service via T-Mobile at
$9.99/day or
$29.99/month. You're prompted for your subscription information, or to enter your credit card info, when you first launch your web browser.
Michael Miller is a writer and commentator on technology and digital lifestyle topics. 
