Mac 101: Connecting to the Internet (Mac OS X v10.5 or later)
Getting connected
There are several ways to get connected to the Internet so that you can use Mail, iChat, Safari, and other applications or games that access the Internet:
Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may be the same as your cable TV company or your phone company, or it may be a different company that offer Internet services, usually for a monthly fee. Your ISP may offer wired Internet access (via an Ethernet cable that connects to your computer or a network router/modem) or Wi-Fi (wireless) Internet access. Check around for services available in your area.
If your Mac doesn't have an Ethernet port, such as a MacBook Air, and Wi-Fi isn't available, you can connect an Ethernet cable via an Ethernet adapter such as the Apple USB Ethernet Adapter.
| Can I just use AirPort?AirPort hardware allows you to set up a home W-Fi network to connect devices wirelessly to your ISP. AirPort is not an ISP by itself. You can use a Time Capsule or AirPort base station to create a home network that allows computers and devices to access your Internet connection wirelessly. To configure your Time Capsule or AirPort base station, see this link. Once you have your Wi-Fi network configured at home, simply connect your Mac to it: Click the AirPort menu and select your home Wi-Fi network. If prompted, enter the password for your Wi-Fi network. Check "Remember this network" to have your Mac automatically join your home network. Read more details about the AirPort status menu. |
Wireless (Wi-Fi) hotspots are like a home wireless network, but may be open to the public.
Wi-Fi hotspot services may be offered around town at coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, book stores, or other retailers. Some cities may offer municipal Wi-Fi Internet access.
Joining a Wi-Fi network is as easy as clicking the AirPort menu and choosing the network from the list. If the wireless network is password-protected, enter the password. Some hotspots may require authentication via a web browser, such as Safari, before you can use Internet services. Open your web browser to verify the connection (or authorize if needed) before trying to use email or open iChat. Some hotspots may require a usage fee.
See your local listings to find Wi-Fi hotspot services in your area.