Wireless popping up all over

Those using wireless should be aware that their computer is more at risk than if they have a wire connection; however, a virus protection program, spyware and firewall will probably protect the wireless user from difficulties, said Al Sherwood, deputy chief information officer for the state.

A trend right now seems to be increasing outdoor wireless locations. The Salt Lake Library at 210 E. 400 South has indoor and outdoor wireless, and many people frequent the plaza on their lunch or school break.

A library plaza with Internet Is one thing but a campsite? That's what IKANO thought when Kampgrounds of America (KOA) asked them to equip their campgrounds with wireless Internet. But, said Darren Menlove, director of the KOA at 1400 W. North Temple, his temporary residents love it.

"It's the single biggest request we've had this season," Menlove said. The Salt Lake KOA was the first in the nation with wireless. Residents of the KOA use the wireless to keep in touch with their families — most live permanently in an R.V. — pay bills and read the newspaper, Menlove said.

Variety aside, wireless and coffee is becoming one and the same. The trend is continuing in hotels, too, but in those locations, it is a more upscale benefit for business travelers Labelle said.

In Utah, wireless is at hotels such as the Hilton and Hotel Monaco. It is also at the Days Inn, which says it sees use by everyone ranging in use from truckers to families to business people.

A list of wireless connections in Salt Lake City can be found at www.wi-fihotspotlist.com.

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E-mail: nandrews@desnews.com