Sequence of Connections

The iPhone isn't online all the time. To save battery power, it actually opens the connection only on demand: when you check email, requesta Web page, open the YouTube program, and so on. At that point, the iPhonetries to get online following this sequence:

  • First, it sniffs around for a Wi-Fi network that you've used before. If it finds one, it connects quietly and automatically. You're not asked for permission, a password, or anything else.

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  • If the iPhone can't find a previous hot spot, but itdetects a new hot spot, a messageappears on the screen. It displays the new hot spot's name; tap it to connect.(If you see a icon next to the hotspot's name, then it's been protected by a password, which you'll have to enter.)

  • If the iPhone can't find any Wi-Fi hot spots to join, or if you don't join any, it reluctantly connects to the cellular EDGE network. You won't win any speed competitions, but at least you'll be able to get online.

Note

Well, usually you'll get online. The eDge network is available almost anywhere you can make a voice call. You'll know when you're connected to eDge because a icon appears on the phone's status bar. (When you're on via Wi-Fi, by contrast, ...

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