iPhone 3G how do I access wifi at free wifi spots?

Miró

I was recently given a new iPhone by a friend who wanted the o2 contract but not the phone! I am using it with an o2 PAYG simcard without the data bolt on thingy so I do not have internet access when out and about at the moment. (I really don't need this but it would be good if it didn't cost!)

When faffing around with it at home, (not a very techy person), I was pleased to find that it picked up my wireless broadband and after inputting my password it worked!! This got me wondering about free wifi access when out and about. Going into 'settings' on the phone I can see that it sometimes picks up possible wifi connections, (sites such as university, pubs, Wetherspoons, coffee shops etc), but I haven't a clue how to go about establishing a connection? Can anyone help me please to understand how to go about it? I've noticed that sometimes a padlock is displayed...presumably that is a secure, locked, inaccessible network?? How do I set up the phone to access free wifi please?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Marty_J

You do it the same as your home network. Obviously if the network is secured, you'll need to know the key first.

hendersonb

last time I was in weatherspoons they had leaflets on the tables and in small print on the back was the wireless key, other places you may need to ask the staff. McDonalds should be unsecured as far as i know.

GonzoAston

Yep, was guna say Maccies too

People from my work go and sit in their car park to use it.

amcluesent

>I am using it with an o2 PAYG simcard without the data bolt on thingy<

Expect the money to be gobbled up then. The iPhone makes a lot of use of data services as it designers assumed that the tariff includes data

Marty_J

She wants to use it for wifi, not 3G.