i just bought a laptop from dell. i have NO clue how to get onto the internet tho. when i click on the network icon it shows all these networks but they are all "secured" so i cant sign on. how do i get my own network? do i need to sign up for internet service? if so with what company? sorry if im asking dumb questions i just am totally lost with what to do...thanks.
2007-09-05 05:58:26 · 12 answers · asked by KB 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Laptops & Notebooks
I got a wireless card from Verizon for mine because I need to use it places besides my home.
If you are just using it at home you can go through your cable company and get wireless for your pc and your laptop.
Otherwise you need to find "hotspots" such as coffee shops, hotels, etc.
2007-09-05 06:03:48 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes you do need to get your own internet service. I recommend either Verizon or comcast both companies whose services I have used. After you get an internet connection you will need to purchase a router. A good wireless router costs about 60 dollars.There are cheaper options but I would not recommend anything cheaper because of it's low range. The router comes with basic instructions on how to setup your wireless network.This process usually takes about ten minutes.After you have installed your network your laptop will recognize it, all you have to do then is click on your network and then you will have access to the internet. Hope this helps.
2007-09-05 06:11:38 · answer #2 · answered by foxfire 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it sounds like you've got a wireless receiver built into your laptop, if you are seeing those networks.
the networks you are seeing are private, protected wireless networks of your neighbors. you can't use those without their permission and a password.
there are lots of free wireless hotspots, at cafes and libraries and everywhere in some cities. those don't have passwords, so if you find one of those, you can just click on it and connect. from another computer, you can also look up where your local hotspots are in google.
for your own access, yes you have to sign up with an ISP, an internet service provider. your local phone or cable company are the likely suspects. call them on the phone to set it up. it does, of course, cost money. if you already have a house phone or cable tv, call those companies and ask them about a package deal.
2007-09-05 06:20:57 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband got his about 2 months ago and he has verizon internet I think it's cool! Along with the internet service they gave him a Phone # he can use as a fax # how cool is that?
Since he is a truck driver he needs this kind of service and it's not that expensive. Other than that check in wirelessinternet.com. GOOD LUCK!
2007-09-05 06:07:01 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, you will need to sign up for your own service. There are a lot of options, but I use AT&T and I like it a lot. If you have AT&T phone service, it will be cheaper than any other options.They will also help you set up your connection once you sign up.
You could also go to places with free wi-fi and get online. =)
2007-09-05 06:04:26 · answer #5 · answered by Miss D 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have to get your own Internet service installed and if you go wireless make sure you secure it. You have to check and see what is available in your area. You'll probably want broadband, check out this site for Internet service providers in your area http://www.thelist.com/.
2007-09-05 06:03:48 · answer #6 · answered by Julie L 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get yourself an internet connection.
for "which company" discuss your friends and family for the most popular service provider in your area or town
2007-09-05 06:07:05 · answer #7 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have to get a internet connection from the provider.
GPRS/EDGE is good for moving around with internet.
ADSL / Dial-up is good to use it in your premises.
If you connect a wireless router to ADSL, then you will be able to move around in your premises with out wire connection within the range of your WiFi coverage. I presume you have WiFi in your laptop.
Hope this helps.
2007-09-05 06:20:08 · answer #8 · answered by Netpal 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yea you will need to pay for internet access, or go to starbucks. They have a free wireless network.
Contact your local cable and phone providers and see who has the best deal.
2007-09-05 06:02:00 · answer #9 · answered by Shwaa 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes you need to call a local ISP, DSL is probably cheapest, then wifi or cable. Once you get it you can get a wireless router which will connect to your modem supplied by your ISP and you can connect wireless from your laptop
2007-09-05 06:02:33 · answer #10 · answered by Z 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋