How close to a hotspot do you have to be to connect?
138802
It does depend on the router, but we're probably talking about less than 1/2 mile.\n\nYour only option in rural VA might be satellite.  In addition to the tradition satellite companies (Directway and Starband), there is a new satellite ISP, but not available everywhere in the US yet:\n\nhttp://www.wildblue.com\n\nI think you can check on the website if the service is available yet in your area.  The prices might be similar, but for higher BW.
553444
I agree with the first answer.\n\nyou have to consider:\n-topography of location (is the area surrounded by mountains, or is the location a 'free-space' type?)\n-type of network to be built (wired or wireless?)\n-distances of endpoints (if you're opting for wireless)\n\nfor your reference:
1100878
WiFi HotSpot \nWiFi is short for "wireless fidelity" - a technology that lets people log onto the Internet without using a wired connection.  Public libraries all around the nation are going "wireless" and most of the public libraries in Rock County have followed suit.  Many airports, hotels, and other services also offer public access to WIFI networks so people can log onto the Internet and receive emails and search the Internet on the move.  These locations are known as "hotspots".  \n\nYou may have to stop at your library's information desk for a key code, although at some libraries you can just log on without any special code.  Please note that WiFi connections are not a secure connection to the Internet.\n\n\nHere you will find more detailed information\nhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hotspot_%28wifi%29\nhttp://www.hotspoty.sk/En/whatis_wifi.htm\nhttp://www.wi-fihotspotlist.com/\nhttp://www.wifi-planet.org/wifi-freespot.php
342007
That depends on who is running the network.  If it's a friend or neighbor, I would expect nothing.  If you want to hook up with a T-Mobile or Verizon, etc hotspot, then expect to pay money.\n\nSome commercial spots may let it be used for free (if it brings in more customers).  Some hotels give it for free, possibly some coffee shops.
409419
I would suggest an Airport. Since its from Apple, you can probally set up yourself without a whole lot of problems. But almost any router will work. And most have the same range. I have a Netgear in my house (which is also 3 stories) and we have never had a problem with picking up the signal. I can even take my computer outside and use it. The only thing that will change is the signal strengh. That depends on what your house is made of. If its brick, you won't get as stong a signal as a house made of wood. But with a broadband connection, it won't be a big enough differnce to matter much. Again, I would just go with the Airport because it's from Apple.
1101019
Well I've always had to ask. My biggest problem is finding a WI-FI area, but! alas! HERE  is a link that provides free software for your computer to help track down a wi-fi connection!\n\nhttp://www.quizpoints.com/freebieClicked.asp?id=4708
904390
Wireless internet is just a connection to the net via radio signal rather than a hard wire - pretty much the same thing as a cell phone's connection to the telephone network. \n\nYou'll need a wireless card - it plugs into the side or back of your laptop - that will "talk" to the internet for you. You can get one at Radio Shack, any computer store, any truck stop, or even on eBay. \n\nOnce you have the wireless card plugged in and set up, you'll be able to connect to the internet whenever you're within range of a "hot spot". Hot spots are everywhere (even Iowa has free hot spots at each interstate rest area!), so you should be able to connect to the net in all but the most remote places. \n\nGood luck! - Stuart
925098
you could buy another access point and bridge the connection but it's probably easier to buy a good dipole antenna or range expander.
1089242
The idea of these hotspots is to have guests sit in the restaurant and use it while eating/drinking/etc. They're purposely designed to have very short range. A different NIC with a bigger antenna might be able to pick up the signal better.
789725
Nope if you have a portable device with a wifi card in it you can go to a wifi hotspot and get it
694201
ok man heres what i want you to do walk around your house and if you really want outside and click find connection if you dont find a connection without a password thing then you can go to bestbuy and buy somthing called WiFi max \n\nhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7671539&st=wifi+max&type=product&id=1134701971203 \n\nand it comes with somthin else for psp too umm or you can go to best buy and buy a router like this  \n\nhttp://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=5250774&st=router&type=product&id=1051384663529
323511
Possibily wireless data link or direct setallite link.\n\ncheck out with your ISP that you are willing to do something like that he will give you a perfect idea about what's going on in their scenario and how are they doing it.
491384
If there are no BRICK walls or chimney in the middle of your building, I would consider installing a wired system that crosses between the two floors.   Let's say that you have a wireless router that serves the computers on the first floor, then a good digital switch (hub) on the second floor.  Then use an AnyPoint wireless extender on the 2nd floor.   Position this as far away from the downstairs router as possible.    There are some wireless devices that relay the signal from the original wireless router, but I have had trouble with these at times.   I prefer using a wire to extend to an Anypoint device.
717643
There are satelite internet providers, or those that use a cellular modem.  But you will not be able to connect to your WAP if it is at home and you are 50 miles away.  It will be extremely out of range.
615531
How are you connected?
1066263
It depends on if there's a wireless connection where ever you're located.
1022420
So you've got a Pocket PC and can't figure how to use the internet on it? \n\nA Pocket PC is WiFi not netzero, dialup, cables... it's wireless internet.\n\nI've had a Pocket PC about a year now. You need to be looking for hotspots... FREE INTERNET!!! (Sometimes you have to ask for a WEP key if that's what your Pocket PC is asking for, just ask the receptionist. They know what you are asking for). You'll find hotspots more and more. Motel lobbies, some coffee shops, just look around for signs that say "Wireless Internet."\n\nWith a Pocket PC you can troll for hotspots. Go into an apartment building where a lot of 30 somethings live. Your Pocket PC will discover all the access points in range. Most will probably be secured, but a few won't. I've found internet access often this way. I've even cruzed neighborhoods trolling for unsecured internet connections to glom onto.