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Finding and Using Wi-Fi Hotspots

Get online when you're out and about

By Bradley Mitchell Bradley Mitchell Writer Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Illinois An MIT graduate who brings years of technical experience to articles on SEO, computers, and wireless networking. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on September 20, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Home Networking The Wireless Connection Routers & Firewalls Network Hubs ISP Broadband Ethernet Installing & Upgrading Wi-Fi & Wireless A Wi-Fi hotspot is a wireless access point that provides internet access to network devices in public locations such as downtown centers, cafés, airports, and hotels. Businesses and schools are increasingly using Wi-Fi hotspots for their internal (intranet) networks. Home wireless networks also use similar Wi-Fi technology.

Requirements to Use Wi-Fi Hotspots

Computers (and other devices) connect to hotspots using their internal Wi-Fi network adapters. If your computer doesn't have an internal Wi-Fi adapter, install Wi-Fi network adapters separately. Depending on the type of computer and personal preferences, you can use a USB, PC Card, ExpressCard, or PCI card adapter. Public Wi-Fi hotspots sometimes require paid subscriptions. To sign-up with these hotspots, you'll provide credit card information online or by phone and choose a service plan. Some service providers offer plans that work at thousands of hotspots throughout the country. Busakorn Pongparnit/Getty Images Service providers supply the profile information required to access their Wi-Fi hotspots. This information includes: The network name (also called SSID) distinguishes hotspot networks from each other. Encryption keys (a series of letters and numbers) scramble the network traffic to and from a hotspot.

Finding Wi-Fi Hotspots

Computers can automatically scan for hotspots that are within range of their wireless signal. These scans identify the network name (SSID) of the hotspot and allow the computer to initiate a connection. If you don't want to use a computer to find hotspots, use a separate gadget called a Wi-Fi finder. These small devices scan for hotspot signals and might indicate signal strength to pinpoint their exact locations. Before traveling to a faraway place, find Wi-Fi hotspots using online wireless hotspot finder services.

Connect to Wi-Fi Hotspots

The process of connecting to a Wi-Fi hotspot works similarly to home, business, and public wireless networks. With the profile (network name and encryption settings) applied on the wireless network adapter, initiate the computer's connection. Paid or restricted hotspot services require you to log in with a username and password the first time you access the internet.

Dangers of Wi-Fi Hotspots

Wi-Fi hotspots are generally safe, although a hacker with the technical skills can break into a computer through a hotspot and access personal data. A few necessary precautions help ensure safety when using Wi-Fi hotspots: Research the public hotspot service providers and choose only reputable providers who use strong security settings on their networks. Check the computer settings to ensure you do not accidentally connect to non-preferred hotspots. Be aware of your surroundings, and watch for suspicious individuals who may be reading your screen or paying too much attention to your device. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire How to Turn Your Windows Laptop Into a Wi-Fi Hotspot What to Do When Windows 11 Can't Connect to a Network How to Connect Chromecast to Hotel Wi-Fi How to Use Your Android Phone as a Wi-Fi Hotspot What Is a Wi-Fi Hotspot? How to Fix It When There's No Internet Connection Share an Internet Connection in Windows How to Use Chromecast Without Wi-Fi How to Fix a "Failed to Obtain IP Address" Android Error How to Share Internet Access Can't Connect to the Internet? Try These 10 Tips Understanding Wi-Fi and How It Works How to Find and Use Internet Cafes International Wi-Fi Internet Service Providers How to Find Free Wi-Fi Hotspots How to Share Your Internet Connection on a Mac via Wi-Fi Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies