Lycos has launched an online database that allows people to find Wi-Fi hotspots around the UK.

The new website  carries a database of thousands of the UK’s hotspots and enables users to type in a postcode to find their nearest wireless internet connection.

In the UK, it will find over 10,000 connections in over 1,500 towns and covers over 280 providers. It includes details of paid-for hotspots run by companies including T-Mobile, The Cloud and BT, as well as free-to-access Wi-Fi points.

The tool also covers spots in Sweden, Spain, Germany, France and Portugal. Users are also able to submit new hotspots to the service for inclusion in the database. The sniffer automatically updates as new sites or countries are added to its listings.

The webpage also offers a free McAfee Wi-Fi security check. As long as the user has Microsoft's Internet Explorer and an activated ActiveX, the PC can be scanned and security settings checked. It's only available in English.

The online site also offers a free, hotspot “sniffer" that people can download . The Sniffer saves people's settings so when they redial, they don't have to go through the configuration and settings processes each time.

All people need is a notebook PC running Windows XP or 2000 and a compatible wireless card . 

Jeffrey Lee, managing director of Lycos UK said: "This gadget solves the problem faced by many a laptop user of wandering around unknown streets in search of a Wi-Fi spot.

"Now you can track a wireless connection across Europe, speeding up the process of getting hooked to the internet."