The wireless internet service works on laptops and handheld PDAs or a Tablet PC. Your device must be running Windows XP, NT, 2000, 98, ME or Vista, or Macintosh OS, OS 9 or OS10 and either have a built-in 802.11b (WiFi) capability or an external PCMCIA Network Interface Card (NIC).
Once your device is WiFi enabled, there are two ways in which you can get connected:
- If your device is equipped with Windows XP, a few minutes after you turn on your device, XP automatically notifies you that a wireless network is available. Then check to make sure a wireless encryption protocol hasn't been activated on your device (perhaps because that is what you use in the office). If it has, you will have to turn it off. At that point, you are automatically associated with the network and simply launch your browser.
- If you do not have XP, open the connection manager utility that is associated with your NIC and go to the tab that allows you to establish new profiles. When it asks for the SSID (service set identifier), enter: Boingo Hotspot (case sensitive, don't use the quotation marks) and click on Apply.
- If I already have a monthly subscription to a Wireless ISP, can I use it on this network? This is what is known as roaming. In order for you to use your existing subscription, your WISP must have an access agreement with Boingo, the company operating the network at MSP. Check with your WISP to find out if such an agreement has been executed. If not, you can still gain access using your credit card.
- Is the service available throughout the airport? Service is available throughout the public areas of both terminals beyond the security checkpoints. At Terminal 1-Lindbergh, there is also coverage in the Airport Conference Center, both Delta Sky Clubs, and the Mall area.