Re: newbie -- very confused

Louise wrote:
>
> [This followup was posted to alt.internet.wireless and a copy was sent to the cited author.]
>
> I have a ThinkPad and just purchased an Intel Pro wireless
> 2011b lan PC card on eBay. I'm running Windows XP
> professional. My wish is to use this to be able to connect
> wirelessly in Starbucks, Borders and perhaps also to find
> some sites where people are "sharing".
>
> I have a cable modem and a wired network connection at home
> and would therefore only be using this card on vacations
> and at other times when I am away.
>
> I've installed the card with an updated driver from the
> Intel site. It came with some software which I have not
> installed because I'm not sure I need it and I don't know
> what it does.
>
> How do I proceed from here? The network card is recognized
> by Windows and as far as I can tell, is ready to go.
>
> How do I set it up to find wireless connections? Do I just
> walking into Starbucks and turn on the computer? Or, how
> do I find other "shared connections" either those shared by
> people, or those that are available in large public places
> such as Bryant Park in New York City and airports and
> places like that?
>
> Sorry if this is a foolish question but after purchasing
> the card and installing it, I realized I really don't know
> how to proceed from here.
>
> TIA
>
> Louise

Some additional research may have been in order.
Access at Starbucks is via *paid* T-mobile service...but they do offer a
free "day pass":
http://www.starbucks.com/retail/wireless.asp

Otherwise...some search engine work may help:
http://www.nycwireless.net/
http://www.personaltelco.net/index.c...essCommunities

(E-Mail Removed) wrote:

> Some additional research may have been in order.
> Access at Starbucks is via *paid* T-mobile service...but they do offer a
> free "day pass":
> http://www.starbucks.com/retail/wireless.asp

At Starbucks it is just that easy. All you do is walk in, sit down, and
try to connect to any web page. You will see a T-Mobile login screen
instead of the web page that you are trying to get to.

> Otherwise...some search engine work may help:
> http://www.nycwireless.net/

These are even easier. When you try to go to a web page... you get the web
page. ;-)

Of course, that assumes that your computer is set up to use the wireless
connection correctly. If you get a WAP for home (they can be as cheap as
$29), and get it working there, then you can be fairly certain that it will
work at one of the public spots.

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Clarence A Dold - Hidden Valley (Lake County) CA USA 38.8-122.5