Before You Begin

Required Permission

Everyone

Intended Audience

• Seniors
• Older Australians
• Technology beginners

Prerequisites

• Getting Comfortable with Technology
• Understanding Your Device

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module you will be able to:

• Understand what the internet is.
• Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
• Understand the difference between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
• Know when to use each type of connection.
• Recognise whether your device is connected.
• Understand some basic internet safety tips.

Main Content

Welcome

The internet allows your device to connect with millions of other computers around the world.

Once you're connected, you can:

• Send emails
• Video call family and friends
• Read the news
• Shop online
• Watch videos
• Listen to music
• Find directions
• Access government services
• Learn almost anything

Don't worry if you've never connected a device before. Once you've done it a few times, it becomes very easy.

What You'll Learn

In this module you'll learn:

• What the internet is
• What Wi-Fi is
• How to connect to Wi-Fi
• What mobile data is
• The difference between Wi-Fi and mobile data
• How to test your connection

Lesson 1 - What is the Internet?

Think of the internet as a giant network that connects millions of computers, phones and tablets around the world.

It allows information to travel almost instantly between people and businesses.

Using the internet means you can:

• Search for information
• Read websites
• Watch videos
• Make video calls
• Send messages
• Shop online
• Pay bills
• Access online banking

You don't need to understand how the internet works behind the scenes—just knowing what it can do is enough to get started.

Lesson 2 - What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless connection that allows your device to connect to the internet without using cables.

Most homes have a Wi-Fi modem or router supplied by their internet provider.

You may also find Wi-Fi in:

• Libraries
• Cafés
• Hotels
• Shopping centres
• Airports
• Community centres

When connected to Wi-Fi, your device uses your home internet service instead of your mobile phone data.

Lesson 3 - Connecting to Wi-Fi

Most devices connect in a similar way.

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Wi-Fi.
3. Turn Wi-Fi On.
4. Choose your home network from the list.
5. Enter your Wi-Fi password if asked.
6. Select Connect.

Once connected, your device will usually remember the network and reconnect automatically when you're at home.

Lesson 4 - What is Mobile Data?

Mobile data allows your phone or tablet to connect to the internet using your mobile phone provider's network.

This means you can still use the internet when you're away from home.

For example, you can:

• Check maps
• Send messages
• Browse websites
• Read emails

...even when Wi-Fi isn't available.

Be aware that mobile data usually counts towards your monthly data allowance.

Lesson 5 - Wi-Fi vs Mobile Data

Although both connect you to the internet, they're used in different situations.

Wi-Fi

Best for:

• Home
• Watching videos
• Video calls
• Downloading updates
• Large downloads

Usually:

• Faster
• Doesn't use your mobile data allowance
• More reliable

Mobile Data

Best for:

• Travelling
• Shopping
• Navigation
• Checking emails while away

Usually:

• Uses your mobile phone plan
• May have monthly limits
• Works almost anywhere with phone reception

Whenever possible, use Wi-Fi to save your mobile data.

Lesson 6 - Internet Browsers

A web browser is the app you use to visit websites.

Common browsers include:

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Safari
• Firefox

To visit a website:

1. Open your browser.
2. Tap the address bar.
3. Type the website address.
4. Press Enter or Go.

For example:

www.troubleshootit.com.au

You can also search Google by typing what you're looking for instead of a website address.

Lesson 7 - How Do I Know I'm Connected?

Most devices display a small icon at the top of the screen.

📶 Wi-Fi symbol = Connected to Wi-Fi

📱 4G or 5G = Using mobile data

❌ No symbol = You may not be connected.

If websites won't load, check these icons first.

Lesson 8 - Staying Safe on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is convenient but should be used carefully.

When using public Wi-Fi:

• Avoid online banking if possible.
• Don't enter sensitive passwords on unknown websites.
• Only visit websites that begin with https://
• Don't automatically connect to every available network.

Home Wi-Fi is generally the safest option.

Practice Activity

Try the following:

✔ Check whether you're connected to Wi-Fi.

✔ Find your Wi-Fi settings.

✔ Disconnect and reconnect to your home Wi-Fi.

✔ Open your web browser.

✔ Visit a website.

✔ Search Google for tomorrow's weather.

Tips for Success

✔ Use Wi-Fi whenever possible.

✔ Keep your Wi-Fi password somewhere safe.

✔ Ask a trusted family member if you're unsure which network to connect to.

✔ Don't panic if the internet stops working—often restarting your modem or device fixes the problem.

✔ Practice browsing different websites to build confidence.

Summary

The internet helps you stay connected with the people and information that matter most.

Whether you're reading the news, making a video call or looking up a recipe, the internet is simply another tool to make everyday life easier.

With a little practice, connecting to Wi-Fi and browsing the web will soon become second nature.

Key Takeaways

• The internet connects your device to the world.
• Wi-Fi is usually the best connection when you're at home.
• Mobile data keeps you connected while you're away.
• Your device shows whether you're connected using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• Safe internet habits help protect your personal information.

Next Module

➡ Staying in Touch

Learn how to make phone calls, send text messages, write emails and make video calls to stay connected with family and friends.

Need a Hand?

Having trouble connecting to the internet or setting up Wi-Fi? Troubleshoot IT can help. We provide friendly, one-on-one technology support to help you get online safely and confidently, whether you're at home or learning remotely.