Wi-Fi Only Connecting at Home

[McGuire]

Hi

A friend asked me why his laptop can't connect to wi-fi spots other than his home, i.e., motel, coffee shop, etc.  (So I don't have the laptop right now.)  He is using Vista.  He's used it before at wi-fi spots, just can't now.  I told him that it may be a network or security setting and that I would research it and get back with him.  Any thoughts?

Thanks

[Mulreay]

Most hotspots require a password. Maybe worth asking him to go into said establishment and ask what there settings are.