I recommend going here: http://www.broadbandreports.com/faq/wlan Go through the FAQ, start with section 20.0 General, it will give you a good basic understanding of what you are wading into. You definitely need to be aware of security if you are going into wireless. That said, it's pretty easy to do, I saw some routers in the ads already listed, I will have to check the ads out and find some good choices. EDIT: yeah, you will be looking to get a laptop with wireless capability, and then a wireless router for your home, to connect to your cable or DSL modem. This will cover your home, maybe your neighbors or out front in the street also (which is why security is more important, because your computer will be on a network). A wireless router provides wireless capability, as well as providing you the baility to have multiple computers or network devices linked together. Then if you go elsewhere with your laptop, you may be able to go online if they have wireless hotspots, libraries, coffeeshops and airports usually have them. Some may require a purchase and getting login information, others allow access to everyone.