Originally Posted by testpie

Wi-Fi works by you either having it integrated into the laptop (ala Centrino), or buying a PCMCIA adapter that slots into the side. In order to use it, you need an access point - either you have to buy one yourself, or find one to use around your area (etc. in cafe's, or the neighbour's unsecured one ); just remember if you stump for the cafe option, most owners will usually charge you to access it.

Be careful of the saleman here though - they'll tell you that integrated (i.e. Centrino) is better... which it is - for their pockets on the commision they'll make. However, for you as a user, an adapter is just as good on a laptop that doesn't have integrated Wi-Fi, and will only set you back around GBP 5 - GBP 10 ($10 - $18ish).