Ubuntu UNR using WiFi

[Swamp Rat]

I need a WIFI modem to connect to my Asus Eee/901 preferably using
Telstra (because of the coverage in country areas). Telstra told me
they do not support Ubuntu or any other flavour of Unix with their
broadband wifi modems.

Does anyone know how to connect these little USB devices and how to
get them working?

I'm new to Ubuntu and have low end knowledge of the operating system
or Unix.

Grateful for any assistance.
john