Where’s the Wi-Fi?

If you’ve already embraced Wi-Fi, you know the advantages of wireless technology. Wi-Fi enables you to maintain your Internet connection when you move your laptop around the office or take it from the living room to the kitchen. But with many businesses now offering Wi-Fi "hotspots" to the public, you can connect to the Internet around town, too.

If you need to check your e-mail or want to download the latest MLS data between appointments, but don’t have time to drive back to your office, find a hotspot. Coffee shops, delis, public libraries, bars, hotels–all kinds of places now provide Wi-Fi access; some charge a fee, others don’t.

Web sites like JIWIRE.com and WiFinder.com enable you to search for hotspots in your corner of Texas and tell you the price (if any), provider, and address of the business that hosts the Wi-Fi. In some cases, the search result contains links to maps or more-detailed connection instructions.

Print out the locations in your city or town and keep the list with your laptop, so you’ll always know where you can access the Internet. If you’re looking for a hotspot without your list, check out chain hotels or Starbucks for fee-based Wi-Fi. If you’re in Amarillo, Austin, College Station, Houston, or Huntsville, you’re in luck because Schlotzsky’s Deli locations in those areas provide free Wi-Fi. Check out www.cooldeli.com/wireless.html for deli addresses and instructions on connecting to their hotspots.

Photo © Corbis Images.

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