Can only connect...locally

I often use hot spots while traveling and today, when I went to my usual connection, it only says limited connectivity or local only. I usually get local/internet. I restarted my computer and also restored my settings from 2 days previous. Is there a simple setting? I'm a single Mom and can't afford to call the Geek Squad..LOL :-D

 

Well, that's ok, I wouldn't recommend the geek squad anyway...

When you get limited connectivity are you connecting to a hotspot, like at a hotel or coffee shop, or is this a home connection?

I'm assuming it's a hotspot since that is what you mentioned. I'm also assuming that it's a wireless connection

Unless you're sure you're connecting to the correct network, I'd ask the owner of where ever you are what the SSID of their network. This is probably only necessary if there are multiple networks showing up.

Also make sure you have a decent signal.

Also, what is your OS? XP Home?

Also... Where exactly do you go when you go to connect?

 

[Sorry if I grab onto this thread to solve my issue but its similar]
I have a similar issue on my desktop computer. I have a Gateway GM5654 running on Vista Home Premium, it has a Linksys Wireless N WMP300N adaptor, connected to an Actiontec MI424-WR Wireless Gateway (Verizon FIOS). I'm getting Local Only access, the weird thing about it is that sometimes I am able to surf the internet fine with "local only" access, where in other instances I've seen and read that most people with local only access are not able to access the internet at all, though it bothers me somewhat. I have tried releasing and renewing the IP address, resetting the adapter, tried the windows fix utility but it comes back saying windows did not find any issues with your connection. I have seen my connection have "local and internet" access before but that is a very rare instance, it switches on its own at random times. I am pretty sure it is a windows vista issue, since I have an XP laptop, which connects with no problems.
Hope my question also help the lady that was here first. Thanks