internet access......how does it work?

[Sleepy]

We have finally bought a laptop and we will be bringing it with us on vacation. Since I have never needed in room internet access, I have no idea how this works. I know I will have to pay a daily fee, but do I need to have an account with an internet provider in the States? Do I have to download anything on my laptop to access internet? Also, can you pick and choose which days you have access or will it be for the duration of your stay? Is it fast? Thanks