It's short for "Wireless Fidelity." It is used to connect wireless enabled devices such as laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other handheld devices using wireless radio frequencies to a broadband connection on the Internet.

Currently, Wi-Fi operates on the 802.11b set of standards defined by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

The signal is transmitted to and from a base station known as an access point and utilizes the unlicensed 2.4 GHz band radio frequency (cordless phones use this same band).

It provides a range of approximately 300 feet depending on obstructions.

Three things will be needed to access a BellSouth FastAccess HotSpot:

1.	A laptop or handheld device with Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless capability will be required. The existing device may already have this capability built-in. If not, a Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless networking card can be purchased for most laptops and many handheld devices from major electronics retailers or direct from the manufacturer. BellSouth has created a special offer for Wi-Fi trial participants to purchase 802.11b laptop cards for a substantial discount off the retail price. When the device is wireless-enabled, the SSID (network name, or network identifier) will need to be set to FASTACCESS. Refer to the documentation that came along with the wireless network card for specific instructions on how to make the change.
2.	A standard Internet-ready browser, such as Microsoft Explorer will be required. No additional software is required.
3.	A valid BellSouth FastAccess® DSL or BellSouth® Dial Internet Service subscriber username and password will be required to log-in and gain access to the FastAccess HotSpot.

The BellSouth FastAccess Hotspot service is not OS-specific, and will work with any operating system as long as there is a compatible Internet-ready browser, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, and a Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless adapter. Macs with AirPort cards installed usually require little or no configuration. You will need to set your Airport card to select the BellSouth FastAccess HotSpot service. See the Airport card documentation for specific instructions.