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HotelChatter Annual WiFi Report 2009

HotelChatter Annual WiFi Report 2009 :: Best :: Worst :: International :: Tips :: Chart

TIPS FOR CONNECTING IN-ROOM

Ethernet Woes
We hate ethernet cables. We hate them. If we're working on our computers while we're staying in hotels, then we already feel tied to our (virtual) desks. Ethernet cables just hammer that imprisoned feeling deeper into our already-damaged psyche. While we're not lazy enough to want the portable laptop desk, we always want the option of being able to drag the computer in the bed with us if we so desire.

Wireless Woes
However, just because your hotel room comes with a free-to-move-about-the-bed wireless signal, doesn't mean you're in the clear. Often, wireless signals are so weak that you're forced to use the ethernet cable in the nightstand drawer anyway.

And then there's the age-old debate about the security of wireless connections. While we've never personally experienced any security breaches by logging onto an open hotel WiFi network, we do understand the reasons for being wary of this.

What to Do
Most hotels nowadays have a dedicated support team in-house or a tech support hotline. If your internet is not working, call the front desk and ask them to put you in touch with the tech support specialist(s). This is, of course, a major inconvenience — so if you're forced to use tech support, you should ask the hotel to refund your internet charges if the hotel does not offer to do so already.

Ask For a Room With a Signal
Plenty of people check in and ask to be moved to a room with a view; if WiFi access tops your list of hotel concerns, why not ask for a room with a strong signal? Because many hotels are renovated older buildings, it can be difficult for a hotelier to promise the same signal strength from room to room. Many hoteliers invest in wireless access points, but it doesn't hurt — especially when checking into an older hotel — to ask to be put in a room with a stronger, more consistent signal.

Front Desk Giving You a 1-800 Number = WiFi Warning Sign
If you are having wireless access issues and the front desk gives you a number to call, it means they have completely outsourced their wireless and internet capabilities. No expertise on-site can mean on-phone struggles reminiscent of dealing with your local cable company.

Check for Frequent Guest WiFi Programs Before You Go
Many hotel groups, such as Kimpton and Fairmont, offer loyal guests free WiFi at any of their hotels in return for signing up for their frequent stay program. Usually, the registration process is as easy as entering your email address — and you'll be assured of free wireless access whenever you check into one of these hotels.

Have you logged on in a hotel recently? Tell us about your Best and Worst Hotel WiFi Experiences here.