Top WiFi Hotspots in Indianapolis, Indiana

I learned the hard way that I needed to know how to find WiFi hotspots in Indianapolis, Indiana. I was on deadline, just about to submit my latest work, when the wireless connection went down. I assumed it was temporary but the modem was dead and beyond repair. There wasn't going to be a quick fix - so I needed to find a WiFi hotspot and keep working.

I frantically tried to find one. As it turns out, there was no need for panic. There were plenty of choices. Here is a rundown of some of the top WiFi hotspots in Indianapolis as well as their special features:

An Indianapolis Starbucks Was My First Choice WiFi Hotspot

A friend told me that the closest WiFi hotspots in Indianapolis were often at Starbucks, especially since there seemed to be one on nearly every corner of the city. So I jumped into my car and sped over there, hoping for both help - and the needed caffeine.

I got both in abundance. Within minutes, a Starbucks employee had a wireless connection up and running for me. She talked me through all the steps. I was able to work for hours, well beyond the point where our modem was in place. Truth was, I really didn't want to get up from the plush, very comfortable chair where I was sitting.

Starbucks WiFi Hotspots in Indianapolis - Details

For those sleep-deprived individuals who need caffeine as well as a place to work, Starbucks offers both. The employees know enough to talk customers through setting up the WiFi connection.Connecting was simple because my laptop detected the connection and helped me hook up to AT&T WiFi. I was set for the day. Although I had to pay $3.99 for two hours of service, it was worth every penny. Day passes are also available. For select AT&T customers, WiFi service is free at Starbucks.

Starbucks WiFi Hotspots - Points Worth Noting

I did have to pay for the service. This might be a turnoff for some but not for me. I was grateful to be able to get back online quickly. Also, there were varying degrees of background noise. It was quiet when I started working but got busier as the day went on. Finally, users of Starbucks WiFi have to live with the reality that they are on an unsecured connection so I was careful about protecting my identity and passwords.

Panera Bread Offers Free WiFi Hotspots in Indianapolis

There are several Indianapolis Panera Bread locations in Indianapolis, many with free WiFi. In addition to that benefit, Panera has a huge selection of main course soups and sandwiches, making it possible to keep working all day (the low-fat soup choices are both delicious and perfect for dieters). It can be a bit tricky to find a comfortable seat but I found that by getting up and stretching regularly, I didn't have any problems. Plus, you can't beat free when it comes to a WiFi hotspot.

For a list of Panera locations in Indianapolis, check the website here . Those which offer wireless will have a special wireless symbol next to the Panera name.

Panera WiFi Hotspots - Points Worth Noting

Even though the wireless service is free, be prepared to pay for something to eat and don't expect to get free WiFi service without a minimum order. Also, it is wise to avoid the busiest times of the day, usually lunch and dinner time. For early birds, most Panera Bread locations in Indianapolis open by 7 a.m.

Free Indianapolis WiFi Hotspots at All Indianapolis Marion County Public Library Locations

All IMCPL (Indianapolis Marion County Public Libraries can connect to WiFi while in the library. Laptops must have 802.11b- or 802.11g-compliant wireless capability. Connecting is possible for laptops that have built-in wireless capability as well as those which use wireless cards.

To get a wireless connection, simply plug in the power cord, turn on the computer and open a browser. Your usual connections may need to be changed but it is a fairly simple process to log onto a wireless connection at a local Indianapolis public library. Plus, you are guaranteed a relatively silent place to work.

Free WiFi at Indianapolis Libraries - Points Worth Noting

Librarians are not available to answer questions about specific wireless cards. Troubleshooting these kinds of issues is up to the user. Also, it is important to work silently and not bring food or drinks into the library, making it a wise idea to arrive after a meal - not while hungry. Finally, WiFi hotspots at Indianapolis libraries are not secure. For more information and troubleshooting tips, information can be found here . Information is for those who have at least Mac OS X or Windows 2000 XP computers.