Computer newbies forum: posted this over on "Computer Help"

Would be used for what?

If the laptop is wireless, all you do in turn it on in the wireless environment. It'll find the signal and ask you if you want to "join". You say yes. Done. Some hotels charge for wireless, most are free. Some hotels want you to register and provide the proper screen to input either your name or your room number.

Wireless setup is really painless, just follow the screen prompts.

If they have wired Internet you will take an Ethernet cable. I always carry one with me just in case the wireless is painfully slow.

Wayne (IBM freak - 7)

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When you check in to the motel, the envelope your plastic key card comes in may have a code on it. If so, this code is generally the one needed to access their network. As the other poster says, no USB cable is needed. Some motels/hotels have wired connections as well. In any event, you will need to validate yourself as a hotel guest and the code on the envelope is what you will usually need. What generally happens upon first connection is their router redirects you to the hotel's own web site. If this happens, you know you are in and can just start using your own favorites to surf and email software for corespondent If all else fails, you can always embarrass yourself by asking for help at the front desk.