Feature

Wireless Internet-Access Sites

There's Internet in the air: Hot spots all around the city let you log on without a phone line. Grab a laptop with a wireless network card, and stop by these locales for a high-quality signal. (Visit www.nycwireless.net for further technical support.)

By Rachel Rosmarin

1. Chelsea Market

The Nabisco factory turned block-long gourmet labyrinth beams out an industrial-strength wireless signal. Pick up a Fat Witch brownie and find a bench.
75 Ninth Avenue, at 16th Street; www.chelseamarket.com.

2. Parks

Before it gets too cold, let technology and nature collide: Access is available from every movable chair in Bryant Park, at the fountains in Madison Square, and by the dog run in Tompkins Square.
Sixth Avenue from 40th to 42nd Streets
Madison Avenue from 23rd to 25th Streets
Avenue A from 7th to 10th Streets.

3. alt.café

Embrace your inner nerd. This classic East Village hangout might feel a bit like your living room, but don't sit around mooching the free access all day, nursing one cup of coffee -- eat something.
139 Avenue A
212-529-2233.

4. DTUT Café

Not quite free, but close: For $1.99 an hour, you can camp out on the Upper East Side in a cozy antique chair or couch. Order the s'mores, but be careful not to get molten marshmallow all over your laptop.
1626 Second Avenue, near 84th Street
212-327-1327.

5. Avenue B between 10th and 14th Streets

The Neighborhood Tech Center's signal covers four blocks. Use it at Pantry, from the outdoor seating at Life Café, or -- if you're so inclined -- from the curb.