Question : Using a Wireless Router to connect to a public WiFi network

Dear Experts,
I currently have a Netgear MR814 v2 wireless router installed in my home to make our internet connection available to the whole house. Since my laptop does not have WiFi capabilities I'm wondering if it is possible to bring along the router and connect to a WiFi network using the router. If it is possible, how would I go about doing it, assuming I have no access to the WiFi network in any other way (an example would be a WiFi setup in a cafe)?

Thanks for your time,
KyleG

Answer : Using a Wireless Router to connect to a public WiFi network

With a quick look at the docs for this unit, I think not.  It is described as an access point, intended to be hardwired to a network and route to the wireless devices.  It probably will act as a DHCP (dynamic addressing) server - giving out IP addresses to clients, but I don't see that it will function as a client itself - which is typically needed to use public wireless.  Why not add wireless to your notebook?  A PCCARD NIC or a USB NIC run about $20 after rebates and will do what you want - will also let you connect to that Netgear device in the home. Be happy to help you get that setup and working.   --Dale