About Windows access to WiFi when travelling. There are 2 kinds of I'net icons...

[Captain Hilts]

that appear on the wireless connections.

The first is an antenna emitting a radio signal. Those, I can use.

The second is a symbol of two computers connected by a wireless signal. These sites NEVER work for me. WHY is that?????

[CK_John]

1. Not sure what you mean but if the connection is labeled as WEP or WPA that are password protected.nt

[Captain Hilts]

2. Most public/free WiFi has a different icon on the 'available wireless' list.

If they have the antenna, and it's unsecured, I can use it.

If it has the two computer icon, I cannot, even though I get strong signal strength and it's free for the public. I've talked to other Windows folks who have the same problem and don't know why.

HELP!

[CK_John]

3. They may also be blueray or cell tower connection like ATT & Verizon USB sticks. They also could

be other laptops in your zone with the radio off.

[MyNameGoesHere]

4. the 2 pc connection is a

ad-hoc connection to another wi-fi enabled pc.

[Captain Hilts]

5. Ah...that's interesting. How come the 'free' WiFi in Toronto, Amtrak, etc. is in this format?

I'm still confused...

[MyNameGoesHere]

6. this may help

http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/wirelessfaqs/f/adhocwireless.htm

This type of connection will work but it has shortcomings and I am not convinced of the reliability. And one big deal is that the channel number and SSID all must be the same. Maybe they are using a non-standard channel or your device isn't up to the task of negotiating the proper channel.