All iPads have wi-fi, cellular (which I would not activate initially) is an option on them and carrier specific. You'll love it once you start using it. It's small enough to take anywhere.

I have all of my tutorials on it in PDF format. I scan tons and tons of things that I think I might need on retreat. All of my manuals are on it so it's very handy to have around. I can pull it out and not have all of the weight and bulk of books to have to worry about.

If I didn't need my notebook for software for my Statler Stitcher, I think I would only have an iPad.

Geri,
Please do not give up on it. Find someone who knows about them and they can help you.

Some cell plans will add a tablet to your plan for $10 a month but you are stuck with a two year obligation. I would check into the Straight Talk plans at Walmart. No contracts or obligations.

see, now here is another thing I don't undertand....what is a tablet???????? and I guess I will go to the Walmart and ask about Straight Talk???? whatever that is too!!!! someone said they have all their tutes on it.....that is what I want to do, but since I cannot access net thru my wi-fi at home...how else but thru cell phone? Ok, we have Comcast.......and I have been told yes, my router needs to be replaced, as since all of these electronic things we are accumulating (all of us) the routers are getting confused, so there is a new one, BUT it is not available yet.....don't know when....something wrong w/that pic!! So here I sit with this dumb thing...someone said I could buy a wireless router but it is expensive, but my argument is why should I buy it, my cable provider should - that's what we are paying for.....oh, this is indeed a saga.........I am finally getting used to using my Kindle and now this........

How many users do you have at one time on your router? I can't see any issues unless they are limiting you. I would not do a data plan with any cellular carrier (once again, the device is carrier specific) until you have a basic understanding of it. It would be a shame to lock yourself in a plan if you don't need to.

Tablet is another term for an iPad like device.

We use Wi Fi and it works fine. You Should go where you bought it to get help. I know Best Buy has classes (probably for a fee), but you should be able to get some help for it for free since you just bought it. Also, you can go on Google (or probably any search engine) and ask questions, like: How do I bookmark items on my iPad?" or whatever. There is usually help there, but first you need the basics...which should be provided free.

You'll wonder how you did without it when you get used to it!

I have a work-issued iPad (i teach kdg). They told us to take it home and get comfortable using it. I find I rarely use it at home since for some reason, it does not work well with our wireless internet here at home. I know I should discuss that issue with our provider but just haven't pursued it. I think you will enjoy your iPad once you learn to use it. I am considering purchasing one for my dad and step-mom for Christmas. They are both in their 80s and technologically challenged. Plus, their desktop pc is upstairs in their house and not convenient for them to use.

It sounds like possibly you don't have your wifi turned on on your IPad. On the home page, press the settings icon, thenit will show you a list of options, choose Wifi and make sure it is turned on. You may have to enter your wifi password, if you have a locked wifi. I hope this helps. I just got my iPad on thurs. the more you play, the easier it gets! Once you get the hang of it, you will love it!

You should have a guide on your iPad already. Just look in your "iBook" app. Mine has three books for iPad users that were there when I got it. They'll be a great help to you.
My iPad works fine with our wifi at home. It can also be used at offices, restaurants etc. that have free wifi....just be aware of security in those places. I don't do anything that requires using personal info during those times...like ordering online. You may also use relatives and friends personal wifi if they are okay with giving you their connection information. Don't give up! You'll end up wondering what all the worry was about! ;-)

While I understand the desire to save some money, trying to save by not getting a decent wireless connection seems like a waste of an expensive iPad. One of the great things about the iPad is the ability to take it anywhere and use it on the go, not like a desktop computer. If you can't find a kid (they know everything these days!) I'd call Best Buy or a place like that to help you get the most out of it.