The simplest way to connect to the internet is to connect a network cable between the computer and a broadband modem router. Plug in the cable before starting the computer and Ubuntu will connect automatically. If you have an older broadband modem with a USB plug for the computer, things may be more complicated - go to/2xtjt2foradvice on setting up these modems. If the USB broadband modem is a Speedtouch model, you're in luck. There's a very clear walkthrough covering how to set the modem up on the Ubuntu website.

Wireless networking is also easy with Ubuntu, even if you move between different networks. Click on the icon with two circles and a slash between them in the top right of the screen to see a list of the available wireless networks. Left-click on the one you want to connect to.

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If the network is protected a window will appear asking for the passphrase. Type this in the box and click on Login to Network. You may be prompted for a password for the keyring, which is a very handy little program. The keyring stores all your user names and passwords centrally, secured by a single password.

Dial-up modems are more of a challenge to set up. If you are not lucky enough to live in an area covered by broadband, or want to stick with dial-up networking,