Not familiar with NEC but I setup a new Toshiba a few weeks ago with integrated wireless and there was an actual switch on the right-hand side of the case that turned the wireless LAN on and off...could be similar on yours but after re-reading your post, it sounds like the wireless device is working. If you are connecting to a wireless access point at a business, it is most likely using some type of encryption to secure the network...either WEP or WPA. I assume you are using XP? You should have a program controlling your wireless connections if you aren't using the one built into XP...either way, it should show you available wireless networks within range and whether or not they are secured or open. Also, if your work/business access point is not broadcasting the SSID, you won't see it available. If encryption is the issue, you simply need to obtain a hexadecimal key to enter in for accessing the network.
Just a thought,
John
