If you are ever in a restaurant that offers free WiFi, but it seems to not be working, it’s because you need to sign in to the network. The method to do this, though, is where many people get confused. Many people assume that if the WiFi icon says it is connected, then it should work. However, that is not the case. You usually have to agree to the terms and conditions of the free WiFi, which are automatically presented when you go to a non-HTTPS* website (see below for an explanation). So open your web browser and go to aw.ca. Any website will do as long as it does not use HTTPS. I use aw.ca because it is short and simple. The internal WiFi system will then redirect you to a webpage that usually has a check box and a button to agree to the terms and conditions and then connect.
HTTPS explanation: Simply trying to Google search for anything won’t get you online. Google uses HTTPS. The reason you won’t get online is the request to redirect the website is blocked because of the S in HTTPS, which stands for secure. It ensures the website you are visiting is encrypted so that all data is secure while in transit. You wouldn’t want to go to Facebook and have the system redirect you to a fake Facebook login page? Therefore, you must go to a website which does not use HTTPS. Then the system will be able to redirect your request and present you with the login page.
Some phones will automatically detect that you need to sign in to the network to use it. In that case, simply select the “Sign into network” in your notifications and accept the terms and conditions from there.