I have a netbook with built in WI-FI connection and I'm able to connect to a free hotspot near my home the problem is that I want to connect to it from my desktop too. I don't know how to configure it so I'm asking to the experts available in this forum if you know what to do to connect my desktop to the hotspot. I have a Netgear wireless router connected to the desktop.
Well, if your router can be configured as a repeater, then I would take that method. Otherwise, you'll use your laptop as a network bridge. Connect to the hotspot with your laptop wirelessly, and connect your laptop to your desktop via a cat5 cable. open up "Network Connections" on your laptop and select both the wired and wireless connections. Right click and select "Bridge these connections" or something similar. The laptop will basically act as a router for you, retransmitting your requests to the wireless network.
Buy a cheap USB WiFi adapter and a USB extension cable from DealExtreme.com, and stick it out your window. Add a wok from your local Chinatown/$2 shop if you need to.
You can't connect any wifi if there are some securities added on it. You must need to know security password and then after u can connect.
When it is a free WIFI hotspot then he dont need any wpa key. Otherwise it could be a hotspot from a store and you have to ask for the key or login details.
If the signal level is decent then buy a usb dongle, but the best option is to buy an internal wireless adaptor. Also make sure that you don't abuse that free hotspot! Good luck.