devices required for wireless connection to internet

You will need a cable modem and wirless router. You can also get what is called a CABLE GATEWAY, which is a MODEM/WIRELESS ROUTER combination. Either way you would have what you need.

Maybe i should move my thread to the appropriate forum - sorry.
What would be a starting point for laptops that are better for
wireless connections. I've read that centrino and centrino processing
is better for wireless and battery life. Is it worth the extra cost?
I guess i want internet/email access at home and on the road and at
places that have wifi. Can you send me some links to the devices
that would be needed or are these things built into the laptop or
usb dongel type devices? I have cox cable at home but what would
allow me to have access anywhere? Is there a service for this? TIA

It has the Intel wireless card which will work. The Intel is capable of wireless N & G. All you need is a router that will connect to your internet connection. The router will allow you to use connected with wires or wireless. Wireless N routers are a lttle more expensive. Most of the public networks are using G.

Almost all new laptops comes with wireless device built-in to their system, only difference is whether they include a B/G type, G-only type or B/G/N type (these are mostly the reach of the wifi signals and whether your device can receive them - frequency/spectrum). G can receive both B and G, N type depends on the broadcaster on whether using a Draft-N or not. So, wireless-wise, you won't have issues, only leaving the password to access it (if it's free or subscription if it's paid-type). The cox cable will let you surf wired, for in the event the location you are at have a socket for it (and somewhat when at home, you don't have a wireless router - thus can connect directly to the cable or ADSL modem).

Power saving? yes, but only if you don't run many applications or intensive ones or setting your power usage to maximum performance or display to be the brightest settings, else it won't make any difference.

then attaching directly to a cable modem. The IP address of your laptop is hidden behind the firewall the router provides. A hacker may find the IP of the router but the laptop will have it's own IP address that is protected.