When using your psp to access the internet in free WiFi hotspots do you need that 16 digit access code thing to get online?

Depending on where you are connecting to.

If you are connecting to your home, or somebody's WiFi connection, you may need the access code.

If you are connecting to a free wifi hotspot (at McDonalds, Gloria Jeans, Starbucks etc) you will not have to.