Wi-Fi Working ... but cannot connect to internet

[bohemefem]

I have a VAIO laptop. Anywhere I go that has a free wi-fi ... I am able to connect. BUT .... I cannot access the internet. I know that I have probably disconnected something somewhere but cannot figure out where. I have unchecked my firewall but I still cannot pull anything up. I go back to my wi-fi list and sure enough I'm "connected." .... I am running Windows XP on this VAIO. Help?

[slingman]

have you got your ip settings correct - with hotspots 9/10 you need to obtain ip automatically and have dns supplied automatically

make sure in ie you dont have any proxy settings

[stevierrr]

I know this may sound crazy but what is the ie settings and what are proxy settings

[slingman]

first of all never disconnect or stop firewall software unless you know you have windows firewall enabled

have you ever connected your laptop to the internet at all ?

proxy settings are in internet explorer

Tools,
Internet Options,
Connections,
Lan Settings

In Connections you should also have "never dial a connection" if you want to use hotspots

[bohemefem]

Thanks everyone. I'll print these answers out and take home tonight to check my settings.

And, yes, to the question of have I ever been hooked up to the internet.

I've used free wi-fi in coffee shops, hotels, on the side of the road ... many many times.

I'm not sure what happened but I know sometimes a glitch can happen and change all my settings. I just wasn't sure what the settings should say.

So thanks very very very much.

Sabrina:) +