WiFi Hotspot

Is my data and e-mail secure at a Wi-Fi-FreeSpot?

You should never conduct unsecured transactions that include any account or password information over public hotspots using FTP, email, or the Web. Try to use SSL for email (POP and SMTP), or read your email with a Web browser using an SSL connection. Ask your ISP if they offer SSL secure web-based email.

Wireless networks in public areas and "HotSpots" like Internet cafes may not provide any security. Although some service providers do provide this with their custom software, many HotSpots leave all security turned off to make it easier to access and get on the network in the first place. If security is important to you the best way to achieve this when you are connecting back to your office is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). If you do not have access to a VPN and security is important, you may want to limit your wireless network use in these areas to non-critical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.

Most corporate IT departments are already skilled with VPN and can modify existing systems to support Wi-Fi networks. A VPN works through the VPN server at the company headquarters, creating an encryption scheme for data transferred to computers outside the corporate offices. The special VPN software on the remote computer or laptop uses the same encryption scheme, enabling the data to be safely transferred back and forth with no chance of interception.

Wireless transmissions, by their nature, can be intercepted very easily. Our wireless network was designed for ease of use, and thus is not encrypted or password protected. You have the responsibility to make sure that your data is kept secure and that you use secure protocols for any sensitive material. We take no responsibility for any information that is compromised by the use of our network. Also, make sure that your computer does not have file sharing active ( for Windows - click on network settings in the Control Panel, then find and uncheck file and print sharing). Other users on the network may be able to access your files if you do. Read the full document here.

In addition, it would be wise to use some kind of personal firewall to further protect against someone at the next table from accessing your files.

Do I need to purchase goods or services before I can get free access in a Wi-Fi-FreeSpot?

A few locations might offer free access in exchange for a purchase but, by and large, it is not necessary but I'm sure it would be appreciated. If you are just on the premises for the Wi-Fi connection and don't intend to make a purchase you should consider limiting your stay to a reasonable time period. Also, be considerate, give up your seat if someone who has made a purchase needs one. Most Hotel/Motel/Resort locations restrict the free access to guests only, especially if the access is in guest rooms only. Some locations may also have free Wi-Fi access in common areas like lobbies, restaurants and meeting rooms and this may be available to non-guests as well. Some signals can even be picked up from the parking lot.

Do I need to be inside a Wi-Fi-FreeSpot to pick up the signal?

The wireless signal in most indoor locations has a limited range of approximately 100-300 feet. The placement of the access point and the structure and layout of the locations will impact access to the signal. In some locations the signal probably will be available outside the location as well. Using the Cantenna with your laptop might help to enhance the signal. Other low cost, do-it-yourself, wireless antenna info is available at the Do-It-Yourself Wireless Antenna Update site. Cities like Long Beach, California, Gainesville, Florida, Athens, Georgia, Indianapolis, Indiana and St. Louis, Missouri have set up large outdoor downtown Wi-Fi Zones or Clouds where the signal will have a greater range.