How to Get Wireless Internet Access in a Hotel

Connect to your hotel's Wi-Fi on any device

What to Know

  • Obtain the hotel's wireless network name and password when you check in.
  • Open your device's Wi-Fi settings, choose the hotel's network, and select Connect. Enter the password.
  • Open a browser and enter the requested information to complete the connection.

This article explains how to get wireless internet access in a hotel on any computer or mobile device capable of connecting to a wireless network.

How to Connect to a Hotel's Wi-Fi

Access your hotel's internet in much the same way you connect to any Wi-Fi network:

  1. Ask at the front desk for the hotel's wireless network name and password. You might also find the information in your check-in documents or on your key card sleeve.

  2. Make sure that Wi-Fi is turned on on your device.

    Most modern devices have them, but if you don't have a built-in wireless device on your laptop, purchase a USB wireless adapter.

  3. Open the Wi-Fi settings to view the available wireless networks.

    Windows XP showing the wireless network icon
  4. Select your hotel's network and click Connect.

    On some devices, you will connect to Wi-Fi automatically when you select a network. If this step takes more than a minute, restart the connection process.

    The Wi-Fi network in Windows 10 with the Connect button highlighted
  5. Enter the required password if prompted.

  6. Open a web browser if it doesn't automatically open. Provide your credit card information if the Wi-Fi isn't free, enter an authorization code, or accept the terms and conditions for using the service. In many cases, your room number, last name, or a combination of the two, make up the password for complimentary Wi-Fi.

    The DoubleTree hotel internet portal for guests

After you submit your authorization information, you gain full guest access to the hotel's Wi-Fi network. You'll likely see a confirmation screen showing how much time you have to use the internet. Keep an eye out for any time limitations so that you can schedule your work and take advantage of the Wi-Fi service.

Share the Hotel Wi-Fi Signal With Other Devices

If your hotel's wireless service isn't free, you may only be able to access the internet from one device. A travel wireless router, such as the ZuniConnect Travel IV, extends the Wi-Fi signal to several devices.

Secure Your Information Over Hotel Wi-Fi

Most hotel wireless networks are password-protected and encrypted with strong WPA2. If your hotel's network is not protected, be aware of the security risks of using an unsecured network. Set up a firewall and install the latest updates for your operating system and antivirus. For extra security, consider subscribing to a VPN service.

FAQ
  • How do I connect my Nintendo Switch to hotel Wi-Fi?

    Open the Settings menu on your Switch, then select Internet > Internet Settings to have the console search for a Wi-Fi signal. When it appears, choose the hotel's Wi-Fi network (make sure you can confirm it's the official hotel network), then enter the password—if there is one—when prompted.

  • How do I connect my Roku to hotel Wi-Fi?

    First, make sure your Roku device is up-to-date before leaving home. At the hotel, connect your Roku device to your computer or smartphone, then press Home on the Roku remote and select Settings > Network > Set up connection > Wireless. Choose the hotel-s Wi-Fi network (select Scan to look for it if you don't see it listed) and enter a password if necessary. Once connected to the network select I am at a hotel or college dorm, then follow the authentication steps on-screen.

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