WiFi Newbie Needs Help!

[Calliope]

How does one get passwords for Wifi networks (example: Netgear)that seem to be available as per the iPhone notification? I do not have a wireless router at home - so my question is really only about joining other networks that the iPhone picks up.

FYI - AT&T is my internet and phone provider.

Thanks...

 

[joe]

How does one get passwords for Wifi networks (example: Netgear)that seem to be available as per the iPhone notification? I do not have a wireless router at home - so my question is really only about joining other networks that the iPhone picks up.

You won't be able to join password-protected networks unless you already have the password. You should have no problem connecting to the other networks that are not protected.

 

[Calliope]

Thanks... and info for AT&T wifi users

Thanks, Joe for the info. I am getting a better understanding of Wifi now. For all you AT&T users - below is a link on the AT&T site that helps you find "hotspots" in your area. There are basic hotspots (for example, many McDonald's resturuants) which are free - I believe at those, your phone will automatically log you into the network. Then there are premier hotspots (such as some Barnes and Noble's) where you pay a small fee for usage (varies with location). I haven't tried to log onto a premier hotspot yet, so I don't know all the details. Then I think there are hotspots for other wireless networks (such as Verizon, and T-Mobile and at places such as Starbucks.) I think you have to have a plan with these providers to get on the network at their hotspots.

The bottom line is that Wifi is sparcely available for now... Anyway, for AT&T customers - here is the link to the site where you can search for your local "hotspots":
http://www.att.com/gen/general?pid=5949

 

[hkaplan131]

Note that some of the public wifi sites connect you to a server first where you agree to terms of use before it allows general access. I have seen this at airports for sure. Also some places allow you to buy time on a wifi server.