iPhone For Dummies
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Getting on the Internet with your iPhone is easy, using its Wi-Fi or 3G capabilities. How you connect to the Internet depends on what connections are available:
  • You can connect to the Internet via a Wi-Fi network. You can set up this type of network in your own home using your computer and some equipment from your Internet provider. You can also connect over public Wi-Fi networks, referred to as hotspots.

    You’ll probably be surprised to discover how many hotspots your town or city has: Look for Internet cafés, coffee shops, hotels, libraries, and transportation centers such as airports or bus stations, for example. Many of these businesses display signs alerting you to their free Wi-Fi.

  • You can also use the paid data network provided by AT&T, Sprint, or Verizon to connect using 3G from just about anywhere you can get cellphone coverage via a cellular network.

To enable 3G access, tap Settings, then General, and then tap Network. Tap to turn on the Enable 3G and Cellular Data settings. Do note that browsing the Internet using a 3G connection can eat up your data plan allotment quickly if your plan doesn’t include unlimited data access.

To connect to a Wi-Fi network, you have to complete a few steps.

  1. Tap the Settings icon on the Home screen and then tap Wi-Fi.

    Be sure Wi-Fi is set to On and choose a network to connect to. You should be able to access this automatically when you’re in range of this network. When you’re in range of a public hotspot, if access to several nearby networks is available, you may see a message asking you to tap a network name to select it.

    After you select one (or if only one network is available), you may see a message asking for your password. Ask the owner of the hotspot (for example a hotel desk clerk or business owner) for this password.

  2. If you’re required to enter a network password, do so.

  3. Tap the Join button, and you’re connected.

Free public Wi-Fi networks typically don’t require passwords. However, it’s then possible for someone else to track your online activities over these unsecured networks. Avoid accessing financial accounts or sending sensitive e-mail when connected to a public hotspot

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