You are here: Home > Why BT Openzone? > Common questions

Common questions

If your question isn't answered here, please call BT Openzone on 0870 240 5745 (national rate).

What is Wi-Fi and wireless broadband?

Wi-Fi is 'wireless fidelity' or 'wireless' network. It's a great way to connect your laptop or personal digital assistant (PDA) to the internet without using wires (e.g. in wireless-enabled locations you don't need a phone line to surf the internet).

'Wireless broadband' gives you Wi-Fi connectivity to the internet at broadband speed - faster than standard dial-up or 3G access.

What is BT Openzone?

BT Openzone is a wireless broadband (Wi-Fi) service that you can access in public places (hotspots) such as airports, hotels and motorway service stations. You can get online at BT Openzone hotspots throughout the UK and Ireland, and at selected locations abroad.

What hardware and software do I need to
use BT Openzone?

For information about hardware and software requirements, please see the Before you start page.

How do I get a wireless network (WLAN) card?

You can buy a wireless network card online from BT. Or visit your nearest PC World or computer store.

How do I log in to start using BT Openzone?

When you’re in or near (up to 70-100 metres away) a BT Openzone hotspot with your wireless-enabled laptop or PDA, open your web browser and follow these simple steps.

Insert Wi-Fi card or switch on wireless capability
Select BT Openzone from the Wi-FI signal icon in your system tray and connect to the signal
Open your web browser and a BT login page will appear
Select BT Openzone (if not already selected) and login by inserting your user ID and password
Once connected, minimise browser
If using it, launch your VPN (Virtual Private Network) client now and login
You should now have access
When you’ve finished, don’t forget to log out of BT Openzone before closing your web browser.
If you don’t log off you’ll continue to be charged a further 15 minutes usage until the service automatically logs you off for inactivity

Remember to reverse the above actions, ensuring you quit the VPN client before exiting from the BT Openzone login page.

How do I change my username/password?

Your username is pre-allocated and cannot be changed. Please keep your username and password secret. You can change your password when you first log in to use BT Openzone. If you forget either, please call BT Openzone on 0870 240 5745 (national rate) or +44 132 556 0841 from abroad (calls charged at your telephone service provider's international call rates). Technical help is available 24/7.

Is there a bandwidth guarantee with BT Openzone?

There is no bandwidth guarantee with BT Openzone. However, as long as you're in or near a hotspot (up to 70-100 metres away) you should be able to connect at broadband speed. Please note that in extremely busy hotspots, bandwidth may be affected.