How to Get Internet on a Sony PSP

The Sony PSP (Playstation Portable) gaming system features the ability to play a catalog of games, play special sized movie discs, and also access the internet. It can also play MP3s and connect to other PSPs to play head to head games.

The Sony PSP features built in WiFi which allows it to access wireless networks wherever one is available. Accessing the internet on the PSP is quite simple as long as a wireless network is available. This technology is the same technology present in various PDAs and laptop computers.

Connecting to a wireless network internet connection with the PSP:

First turn on the PSP. Locate the WiFi on/off switch on the body of the PSP. This switch on most models is found on the lower left hand side near the bottom of the device. Slide the switch into the on position. Some models of the PSP have a green indicator light that will turn on when the WiFi is enabled.

Next, go into the Network Settings section under the main menu on the PSP system. Select 'scan' under the network settings options. This automatic scanning option will scan the surrounding area for available wireless networks that the PSP unit can connect to.

Choose a wireless network that is unsecured. Secured networks will be indicated in the results list and require a password to access. Unless you have the password for the secured network, stick to the unsecured networks. Select the network that you have access to that has the strongest signal indicated by the signal strength indicator next to the listing.

Common unsecured wireless networks include nearby home networks that aren't password protected, coffee shop wifi, public wifi, and sometimes school networks.

Once a connection has been established with a wireless network nearby, the PSP will have access to the world wide web. The user can browse their favorite sites, connect to head to head gaming sites, check e-mail, download files, and more all directly on the PSP.

Disconnect from the wireless connection by sliding the WiFi switch to the off position before turning the PSP off completely. Also keep the WiFi switch in the off position when not accessing a wireless network. The battery drains faster when the WiFi option remains enabled.

The PSP can become much more than just a gaming system when there are wireless networks available for it to access. Gamers who also need a PDA like device will benefit from the built in WiFi capabilities without having to carry around a separate PDA device.