We will not sell or rent your email address. With the coming proliferation of Wi-Fi, the internet will be much more accessible. That means greater access to email, information, work files, etc. This access promises both pleasure and perils. Wi-Fi access is made available through access points, in some cases called hotspots. Exercise care when using a hotspot, however, because cyber predators may prey on you and your data. In some cases, you may be able to find free hotspots. Some people believe internet access should be free and are taking steps to set up hotspots. If you have a serious business need, you will need to find a more reliable source of access. Several Wi-Fi vendors have established relationships with prominent retailers to offer access. For example, Starbucks offers hotspots using T-mobile service. In a case like this, you will need to sign up for an account through T-mobile. Before taking this step, consider your habits. Are you likely to bring your laptop with the next time you go to Starbucks? If not, then this option may not work for you. Many airports are beginning to offer Wi-Fi. That makes working while you travel much easier. Again, it depends on what your needs are. Time will bring more choices. So, if you do decide you want Wi-Fi now, how do you proceed? First, identify where you will most likely use it? Airport, hotel, cafe, retailer, mall, library, government facility, or more perhaps through another business. Also, are your needs local, regional or national? Once you identify all possible sites, rank them. Consider your top three choices. Is access through a carrier plan or on a pay by hour basis? Consider how many hours you will use the service and how much it will cost. Once you have identified your top choice and if the cost is not prohibitive, take the plunge. What next? First, you need the proper equipment. In most cases, that means purchasing and installing a wireless access card. If you have a laptop with an Intel Centrino chip, you are wireless ready. Your wireless access provider will have additional steps necessary for configuration and access. You will likely be assigned some type of user name and password. If you pay by the hour, consider the minimum increment of time that will be charged. Some vendors may round up to the next hour. That could get expensive. Simpler options are on the way. In time, you may be able to pay for Wi-Fi through your existing cellular carrier or cable provider. Be careful be committing to a long-term contract. Also consider access through other devices such as a wireless PDA. Rick S. Cooper, MBA, is The Sales Results Expert. Rick is a Business & Technology Coach who specializes in working with professional services entrepreneurs who want to attract their ideal clients. He coaches entrepreneurs to improve their sales skills and increase their sales results. He teaches them how to leverage technology tools and increase their productivity. Rick is Founder and President of The PDA Pro. Receive Rick's complimentary audio "7 Steps to Attract your Ideal Clients" by visiting http://www.ThePDApro.com/freebies.asp.
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