BleepingComputer.com: Public Hotspot WLAN - UAM login not available

Need some support on connecting to a public 802.11 wi-fi network.

There is a cafe I am attempting to surf at via wi-fi.

When on their wireless network, I can access the host site only (www.hotcafe.fr), no external sites. Apparently, when I open my browser (IE6) and attempt to access an external site (eg. google) I should be automatically directed to their local portal and asked for my login info.

Trouble is, this doesn't happen.

I am not being directed to their portal and therefore can not login to access external sites.

They have provided the url for this portal- no luck.

This method of access control I believe is considered "UAM" (otherwise known as 'browser hijack method')

Because I can browse their site I know my wireless connection is ok.

I am on WindowsME - which I have been told is not the best for WLAN but I have no issues on my own personal wireless router. Tech support of the provider tells me the issue I am experiencing is typical to WindowsME but I have trouble buying that as 98SE is not a problem.

Is this an IE security deal?

Registry issue?

Anyone have an idea?

Searched high and low and have not found anything on this.

Thanks