Would it make sense to have router firmware that would allow both secure
wireless access and free open access at the same time and treat them
differently? It would work like this: If I connect via my laptop with a
password the software would give me priority in connection speed. The
freeloaders would not be starved entirely but would be limited if I am
hogging bandwidth but could go full tilt when I'm idle. I realize this
might require special software at the computer end as well.

My thinking is that people would be more apt to allow open access if their
own use is prioritized and not just evenly divided. Open access is a good
thing...good for people who need to log on while away from home but don't
need a full wireless service. It's also good to promote anonymity in an
age when the government is ordering ISP's to track every move you make
online. Maybe there is some way to do this on a simplified basis by
leaving access open and letting the router prioritize based on MAC address?
Does this already exist perhaps?