Free access to the Internet

[2000grad]

Access the Internet for free

Hitting the road? Taking a wireless machine? Then you'll want to find free wireless hotspots, wherever you go.
Hotspots are wireless access points that let you surf the Web. Or, you can just check your e-mail. The key word here is "free."
Some stores offer free wireless access to their customers. Local governments also are helpful, with access points in parks and libraries. But, of course, you have to find them. That's what this is about!

If you're using a Windows machine, give NetStumbler (http://www.netstumbler.com/downloads/) a try. This program will tell you when you hit a free access point.
For Macs, there's the JiWire Dashboard Widget http://www.anchorfree.com/wipod/ (http://www.anchorfree.com/wipod/). It can find hotspots for you. And it also has immediate access to JiWire's hotspot directory.
There are other tools for Apple enthusiasts. If you have an iPhone, try the JiWire Wi-Fi Finder (http://www.jiwire.com/iphone-wifi-finder.htm). Just browse to www.jiwire.com (http://www.jiwire.com/) and you'll be detected automatically. You'll be given the option to view the Wi-Fi Finder.
There's even something for the iPod. It is AnchorFree's wiPod (http://www.anchorfree.com/wipod/). This is a database of hotspots. It uses the notes functionality of the iPod.
Finally, there's a great directory on the Internet. The Wi-Fi Free Spot (http://www.wififreespot.com/) has a state-by-state listing of hotspots. It also lists retailers, airports, lodging, RV camps and campgrounds. With any luck, you can avoid having to do without Wi-Fi.
Cost: All Free

For: Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPod

[JAYBEZ]

One of the coolest things I have seen is the free WiFi that Charleston offers.

They have a Wifi bubble over all of downtown. It is called Radius... or something like that.

Best idea ever!.

[johnnyb]

One of the coolest things I have seen is the free WiFi that Charleston offers.

They have a Wifi bubble over all of downtown. It is called Radius... or something like that.

Best idea ever!.

question: do you have to do anything special to access this wifi, i ask because my wife and i and another couple are going to spend the day in charleston next friday and if there is something we think of while we are there it would be easier to google it from the laptop than to try to find a library or ask directions, or call 411

[ultimatetailgater]

It depends on how the wireless gateway is configured. So places will make you sign in with a user name and password they give to you. Sometimes they even charge. Other times if it is an open hotspot all you will have to do is tell your PC to scan for wireless networks in the area and then connect to it.

Netstumbler is a great tool that I've used for years. It's a little advanced for some people though.

[johnnyb]

It depends on how the wireless gateway is configured. So places will make you sign in with a user name and password they give to you. Sometimes they even charge. Other times if it is an open hotspot all you will have to do is tell your PC to scan for wireless networks in the area and then connect to it.

Netstumbler is a great tool that I've used for years. It's a little advanced for some people though.

thanks i was aware of that, but i was wondering if jaybez, or anyone else, knew any thing specific about the charleston network, if you needed un and pw or if it was open...thanks for the response tho man

[usc90grad]

One of the coolest things I have seen is the free WiFi that Charleston offers.

They have a Wifi bubble over all of downtown. It is called Radius... or something like that.

Best idea ever!.

Until we find out the Wifi Bubble causes cancer or they're using it for mind control.

[johnnyb]

Until we find out the Wifi Bubble causes cancer or they're using it for mind control.

i wonder how far that thing reaches, cause ya know it just popped into my head that "hey it would be cool to take a day off and check out charleston one day soon" you think they are using it to boost tourism ......hmmmm intresting very intresting

[JAYBEZ]

It is there as an added benefit for tourist. Also for the children's hospital that is downtown.

I don't know exactly how far it reaches, but I am sure it doesn't stretch outside on the downtown area.


** edit: Apparently it isn't a very strong signal. It covers the whole pennisula, but the signal can be hit or miss.***

[faet]

my favorite mac wifi finding program has to be Kismac. It is kismet (a linux app) that was ported for the mac. It'll find hidden wifi, give the vender info for the router/access point, and if you have a GPS you can hook it up to that and record the strength over a map. Includes other stuff such as WEP cracking (ya know for testing your homenetwork not getting on others wifi ;)) But you need a USB Wifi dongle to do that since the Mac Wifi card lacks.