Internet Availability
Originally, if you had a need to hook up your laptop to the internet a phone jack was (actually, still is) available at the reception outpost. Disney has finally figured out that folks want to stay connected while camping, so a couple of more options are now available. No matter what folks tell you, WiFi is NOT one of the Disney options at the ampsites, but a small hot spot exxists on the porch of Pioneer Hall and in the Internet "cafe" at the Reception drive thru . While many folks have reported WiFi signal at FW campsites, this is probably from someone who has set up their own WiFi hot spot in their RV. In addition to the dial up phone jack at the reception outpost, two Disney options are available:
* High Speed Cable modems at all sites with cable TV access
* Internet "cafe" at the Reception drive thru
At the sites, there is a sign on the utility post advising you to check with the front desk for information about high speed internet. The cost is $9.95 for 24 contiguous hours of access.
With a deposit of $125 to be charged to your room account (the deposit is reversed when the kit is returned) an internet kit is available for check out. The photo to the left shows the kit in the carry box provided.
To the left you see the instruction sheet provided in the kit. The hook-up is pretty simple, a cable splitter gets attached to the connection at the site. This way you can use both TV and Computer. Use your own cable to hook up the TV, the other cable goes to the modem, and then the cat5 cable attaches the modem to your lap top.
NOTE: THIS IS NOT A WIRELESS CONNECTION
After hooking up, and attempting to open your browser, a screen comes up and asks you to enter the last ten digits from your Key to The World Card (room key). The screen, like the instruction sheet, tells you that you will be charged $9.95 for 24 contiguous hours of access. After entering the numbers as instructed you will be directed to the Disney home page. From there, you can go wherever you like.
If you don't want to hassle with the hook up at your site, or if you are not on a preferred site there is a "free" internet cafe in a small room right between the camper check in lanes. The free part deals with dial up lines available. WiFi is available in the cafe and in the area of Crockets Tavern. The $9.95 per 24 hour fee still applies.
The photo to the left shows the interior of the "cafe" which is set up for computer use. The jacks in the wall are for both dial up and high speed. Additionally, WiFi is available in this area. There are signs in there stating that the charge is $9.95 per day to use the high speed connection, so that is not free.
