Re: Can I communicate with user of my open WiFi router?

On Tue, 5 Feb 2008 10:05:54 -0500, Rocket21
<Rocket21.34bdga@no-mx.wirelessforums.org> wrote in
<Rocket21.34bdga@no-mx.wirelessforums.org>:

>I have a wireless router which I keep open. I have plenty of bandwidth
>with my ISP so I don't mind allowing iTouches/iPhones and local
>computers to use my connection.

That could be short-sighted. Allowing someone on your wireless makes it
possible for them to try to compromise your computer, or to use your
wireless in ways that could get you in serious trouble.

>I have noticed a couple regulars though who use my connection every
>day. I have their client name and their MAC addresses. Is there anyway
>for me to communicate with these users? Like if they live next door, it
>would be nice to see if I could get them to pitch in towards my ISP

Change your SSID to something that shows your willingness to share, like
"Call [your phone number] for wireless access", and then turn on WPA
with a strong passphrase so they have to call you to get on your
wireless. Better yet uses WPA Enterprise, so you can give unique
credentials to each user.

--
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