Issue 28.09
As far as working with the internet, there are also a few things to remember. It used to be easy to find a place to link in. Previously, most wireless networks were unsecured and you just had to find one your computer could see and tell it to connect. Now most networks are secured and encrypted, which means you will need the provider’s password and/or encryption key. Even most hotels use this safeguard, so you may need to ask them for instructions to access the internet. Many of them are now requiring a daily payment or charge by the minute to allow you on their network. It is worthwhile to ask, when making your reservations, if they provide free internet and if it is available in-room or if you have to go to the lobby or a computer center to use it.
On our recent cruise, we found that while on board, the internet was available through most of the ship. But you were required to either pay 75 cents a minute (which accumulates quickly) or you could pay in advance for a block of time – 1 hour for $35, 3 hours for $75, 6 hours for $125, etc. We decided to wait until we were in port and find a “wi-fi hotspot”. These are sometimes free (in restaurants, hotels, etc.) and often you can purchase an hour or two for $5. Either way it was a lot less expensive than on board the cruise ship.
If the hassle of going through airport security, keeping track of your computer and keeping it safe from thieves, and carrying it around with you (added weight) are annoying and you don’t use it a lot, it is usually easier to go to internet cafés or libraries where you can use their computer free or for a small fee. This works well if all you need to do is check on-line email and visit a few web-sites. Also, remember to never enter private information (especially banking, social security, etc.) at any open site where others might steal your identity. Even internet cafés are dangerous because they can often track what you enter.
As always, keep backups of anything important. Stay safe and happy computing.
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 27 years (locally with Musicomp & Bits ‘N’ Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions, you can reach him at 668-7118.