Newbie, (please help) laptops and internet

I am very unfamiliar with laptops and internet (besides dial-up that is) and I'm looking for some help! I have a Dell Inspiron 1100 and want to get wireless internet. Can anyone give me advice as to which providers are the best, what exactly it is I need, and what I can expect???? Or if you have any other suggestions (newest/latest technology) I'd very much appreciate it. Thanks for your help in advance!

HP

What kind of wireless internet are you referring to? A service that you can use anywhere, like a cell phone? Or are you referring to a wireless connection that you use to connect through your home connection and connections provided in public places (net cafes, etc)?

Probably the first option... service that I can use anywhere...

Thanks for replying!

That sort of service requires you to get service through a cellular provider such as Verizon. They will sell you a card for your laptop that will allow you to dial into their service and have access anywhere you have service. This isn't what people are usually referring to when they say "wireless internet" however. They are generally referring to connecting via Wi-Fi using a wireless networking card. These cards are inexpensive (under $50) and do not require you to buy any service from a provider like Verizon. You can use that card in conjunction with your laptop to get online in public places like net cafes, some parks, and other places like that. Heck, even some McDonald's have Wi-Fi access. With that sort of wireless internet, you can only be online when you are in range of a Wi-Fi access point.

Thank you!!!! I think I'm beginning to understand... still a little out-of-date with all this recent techno stuff!!!!