How to configure wireless for free access points ?

[alexzabr]

I'm messing arround with wireless in my T43 (Intel 2200B/G adapter).
I have no wireless-capable router at home yet, however would like to try out the connectivity with free networks (hotspots). I understand I have first to configure my wireless profiles (I intend to use Access Connections) such as IP, xxx (I'm quite novice into wireless and networking in general so my questions may sound pretty dumb..).
Being at home, my wireless detects several networks available (some b, some g types), one of these appears to be free (or not encrypted) as reported by Access Connections. However trying to establish the connection - it fails, supposedly due to my lack of proper configuration.
Also, there are several free hotspots available in my proximity (coffee shops), I'd like to be able to use them as well (so will have to have Access Connections to be configured accordingly).
So, how to configure the thing ? (I guess I'll have to create several profiles to suit particular connectivity cases...)

BTW, I installed the newer version of 2200BG driver - followed the instructions in the known thread on the new driver issues in T4x forum here - need to check it working. (at least Fn+F5 combination seems to work - toggling the radio on/off).

Thanks in advance, Alex

[bill bolton]

Being at home, my wireless detects several networks available (some b, some g types), one of these appears to be free (or not encrypted) as reported by Access Connections. However trying to establish the connection - it fails, supposedly due to my lack of proper configuration.

Just because link doesn't show an encrypted/locked status doesn't mean just anyone can connect to it. While encryption is a mandatory attribute of any serious level of prevention of unauthorised access, there are some other lower level mechanisms which can prevent accidental connection from unknown devices, so its possible that you may just be encountering those.

Also, there are several free hotspots available in my proximity (coffee shops), I'd like to be able to use them as well (so will have to have Access Connections to be configured accordingly).
So, how to configure the thing ? (I guess I'll have to create several profiles to suit particular connectivity cases...)

Most public hotspots will allow connection with the default settings for Windows WiFi devices. You should not need to do anything in particular with Access Connections except ensure that your WiFi device is actually turned on.

When you first establish connection to a "new" network, AC will usually prompt you, asking if you want to create a profile for that network. For hotspots, I usually don't bother with a profile until I'm sure I will be using that particular hot spot on a regular basis.

Cheers,

Bill

[alexzabr]

Thanks. understood.
I'm going to acquire my own ADSL - Ethernet/Wireless router for home usage. I guess I have to be configured for such (i.e. router's own configuration I assume to appear in tis documentation, but how to configure teh laptop to work with one ?)

[GomJabbar]

Did you try clicking on Help within Access Connections? There is a information there for setting up a connection.