Top 5 Tips To Finding WiFi Hotspots

With the growing popularity of WiFi-enabled laptops and PDAs many people would like to access the Internet while away from home. Once you have your WiFi-enabled computer or PDA you are ready to go. Whether you need to keep up with e-mail for business or simply chat with a friend, WiFi hotspots allow you to do it while away from home or the office. The only problem is finding WiFi hotspots to connect to the Internet from.

Here are five proven tips to find WiFi hotspots to connect from.

1. Hotspot Locator Service Hotspot locator services are a great place to start when looking for a WiFi hotspot. There are a number of services available online as well as several programs that can be downloaded to your PC. Hotspot locator services allow you to search by location and some even offer integrated maps and driving directions. You can access these services with the Internet browser on your mobile phone as well. It is always a good idea to check several hotspot locators as some hotspots may not be listed in all locators.

   Performing an Internet search for WiFi hotspot locators will produce quite a few results.

2. Portable WiFi Locators - Portable WiFi Locator devices are a must if you plan to use WiFi at different locations. Using a portable WiFi locator device will allow you to verify a WiFi signal before you set up your laptop. Many of these devices come with a keyring attachment so you can clip the WiFi locator to your keys or laptop bag and always have it handy. Most locator devices will tell you if there is a WiFi signal present and how strong the signal is. Cheaper devices are notorious for incorrectly identifying interfering signals as WiFi so you will want to purchase a quality WiFi locator device. Several manufacturers offer locator devices including Kensington, SmartID and Intego.
3. Word of Mouth - One of the best ways to find WiFi hotspots is by word of mouth. Ask your friends and coworkers where they like to connect. This not only works with local WiFi hotspots but also when you are traveling away from home. I often see people ask for WiFi hotspot recommendations on blogs and community bulletin board websites. Often word of mouth referrals will hook you up with a great WiFi hotspot that you may not have found any other way.
4. Popular Free WiFi Locations - You can often find free WiFi hotspots if you check around. Some of the popular free WiFi hotspots include airports, cafes, libraries, book stores, hotels and even some restaurants like Panera Bread or McDonalds. There will often be a sign or sticker on the window or near a door advertising the WiFi service at cafes and bookstores. Watch for other patrons using laptop computers at the location. If you see several people using laptop computers there is a good chance the location is a WiFi hotspot.
5. Popular Paid WiFi Locations - There are a number of paid WiFi services available at locations around the country. Paid WiFi services include T-Mobile, Boingo and others. A paid WiFi hotspot service may be a good option if you frequently travel to places serviced by one WiFi hotspot provider. For instance, T-Mobile hotspots can be found at Starbucks, airports and other locations around the country. There are a variety of subscription options available.

Using WiFi locator services or asking friends and coworkers for a recommendation can start you in the right direction. If you are unable to find a specific location by referral you can always check the popular WiFi hotspot locations and look for other people using laptop computers.The most important key to finding WiFi hotspots is to plan ahead and be prepared.