Every gadget that comes along these days can’t be without the latest technology buzzword, Wi-Fi. For those who don’t know, this allows a device to connect to other compatible devices without the traditional mess of wires by using a radio connection. Nintendo’s hand held console, the Nintendo DS, is no exception to this.

And why have they done this? So you can play Nintendo DS games online for free. There are a number of Nintendo DS online games available including Mario Kart that let you pit you gaming skills against other DS gamers all over the world.

On its own the Nintendo DS has a wireless range of only 30-100 feet so you can only play with other gamers who are close by. But in November 2005 Nintendo launched a service called Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection that lets you connect to other DS’s over the Internet. Not only that, but this service is free!

How can you connect to this free service? Well, you can do this using one of several different methods. First off, Nintendo have set up a network of wireless hotspots in public places such as cafes, libraries and they have arranged a deal with McDonalds to set up hotspots in some of their restaurants.

You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home to access Wi-Fi Connection. If you have access to a wireless router you can you can set up your Nintendo DS to connect to other gamers online. There is room on your Nintendo DS to configure and store up to 3 of these connections.

Don't worry if you don’t have a wireless router. You can still play Nintendo DS games online with Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection if your PC has a broadband connection. All you need is Nintendo’s USB Connector. This plugs into your one of your PC’s USB sockets and doesn't even require you to set up the connection like a wireless router does.

With an ever growing list of online games your Nintendo DS has become the gateway to a whole new gaming experience you can share with others all across the world.

Thomas Heaney is the webmaster of Nintendo DS Gamer and has been playing video and computer games in one form or another since he got his first computer, a ZX Spectrum back in 1984.

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