I know very little about wireless internet, but recently I bought an Acer netbook. I would like to take it to work so that I can use the internet. I heard that you can find something call a "hotspot." Can someone tell me how do I make sure I don't get a virus while searching the internet?
A little information about wireless internet
- Thread starter Cluless
- Start date
You can be running paid antivirus software and firewall and still get infected. You will have to learn how to surf safely online. Download and install either Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials. Don't use p2p software (file sharing). Don't go to porn sites. Install an addon for whatever browser you are using that will give you a status for whatever website you want to visit. Web of Trust is good.
It is important when using public wireless access (even if it's at work) not to use anything that requires a password. Public hotspots are usually unsecured and anyone can monitor your traffic. There are plenty of guides you can google that deal with public wireless security.
You should check with your employer about use of personal PCs at work and also about privacy issues. As soon as you use any of their equipment (their Internet) they are entitled to monitor should they wish.
You should check with your employer about use of personal PCs at work and also about privacy issues. As soon as you use any of their equipment (their Internet) they are entitled to monitor should they wish.
Bacon
Member
True unless you're going to HTTPS enabled sites. Then you don't have as much to worry about. Granted it still isn't ideal.
There are some quite interesting articles on the Net about use of personal computers at work. Some companies encourage their use to save themselves money but that can be offset by privacy / company security / wasted time / IT support issues. Given your work setup, you won't need to worry about getting IT support; zero!
Shakin' the Bacon, quite correct about HTTPS being OK.
Shakin' the Bacon, quite correct about HTTPS being OK.
strollin
Well-Known Member
Virgin Mobile broadband2go is a different beast than what those that responded to this thread were talking about. It is cellular based broadband whereas when you say "wireless internet" most people think of using a public WiFi hotspot.
Your netbook has a WiFi adapter built-in that will allow you to connect to hotspots in the near vicinity. There are both "open" and "secure" hotspots meaning some require a key (similar to a password) to connect to while others allow anyone to connect. In addition, some hotspots are free (no cost) while others require you to pay to access. Free, open hotspots are probably the most dangerous to connect to as they can be setup by people specifically looking to illegally access your computer.
The Broadband2Go is essentially a cell phone with no earpiece or mouthpiece. It's a USB dongle that plugs into your computer and allows you to connect to the Sprint cellular network to access the internet. It requires a monthly subscription cost.
There are pluses and minuses to each. Which is best for you is something you need to decide. First question I would ask is: Does your work have a network with a hotspot setup for you to access? (My guess is no since you say they don't use computers there.) If not, you will need to find out if there is an available hotspot close enough for you to connect to and use. If there isn't then the Broadband2Go option may be best but you would need to determine if your workplace is in a Sprint cellular service area. If it isn't, then you won't be able to use it at your workplace.
Last edited:
daveedmiller
New Member
There are basic types of wireless Web connections. The first is through a mobile phone network, which is used by a growing number of people for browsing the net and checking e-mail through smart rings and PDA devices such as a Blackberry or an iPhone.