I just installed Mangeia 2. I can't get the wireless network installed or working.

I am running an hp pavilion a720n computer with a gig of memory 200 gig hard drive a dvd & a cd. Usb drives.

I am running the network connected to a wifi hot spot on my verizon telephone they call it broadband. There is no indication I can see that it even knows the hot spot is there. What do I do? I'm gretrying different disastrous to see which one I want to settle down to. Ubuntu 12.04 recognizes the network but will not finish installing

Thanks,
Nate