wifi finders are sold by many manufacturers http://studenttravel.about.com/od/l... but as far as I know, NONE of them has the ability to say if a network is open versus encrypted. Does anyone know of a network finder that can tell you if a found network is OPEN?

I don't know why you post network-related question in the Hardware Forum. Check the link again. It stated Finds *only* wifi hotspots . Hotspots are open. If you are in the U.S.A. you don't need this gadget because you can get the same thing from the following link without having to point the device to the air every few distance. http://cnet.jiwire.com/ EDIT: I hope you fully understand the dangers of using hotspots. If you don't, may I suggest that you first read the following article before you start using it. http://www.home-network-help.com/wi... i_Xp/VistaUser

Load up a backtrack live cd. I read it wrong and answer it wrong too. So get off my case you peanut.

I posted it here because it is a hardware item to purchase. The product in the link finds wireless signals, and does not distinguish between open and closed networks. Hotspots are not necessarily free - some require logins and accounts. I am looking for a device that says it can distinguish between open and encrypted signals - the one in the link cannot

johnoh, You are correct that not all hotspots are free without login and account. On my laptop running Windows Vista I have a gadget called Xirrus Wi-Fi Monitor (Click Me) loaded in the Sidebar. This gadget does provide what you are looking for - the ability to distinguish between open and encrypted signals - plus more. I don't know if there is similar tool built for Windows XP out there. i_Xp/VistaUser

Hi johnoh...long time no see! @ XpUser, My laptop (& desktop) can pickup wifi signals & tell me if they're open, WEP or WPA, but that's not what johnoh's asking....he's looking for a mini unit like the one in his link. BTW, johnoh used to own these forums a few years back...treat him good :-)

My badness I must have thought of something else. Sorry about that, johnoh. jam, what utility or software for the desktop are you using that distinguish the wifi signals? Is your desktop wireless? i_Xp/VistaUser