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Windows 7 Can Create Rogue Wi-Fi Access Point
alphadogg writes "Windows 7 contains a 'SoftAP' feature, also called 'virtual Wi-Fi,' that allows a PC to function simultaneously as a Wi-Fi client and as an access point to which other Wi-Fi-capable devices can connect. The capability is handy when users want to share music and play interactive games. But it also can allow on-site visitors and parking-lot hackers to piggyback onto the user's laptop and 'ghost ride' into a corporate network unnoticed."
While this means a bit more policing for networks meant to be locked down, it sounds like a good thing overall. Linux users, meanwhile, have had kernel support (since 2.6.26) for 802.11s mesh networking, as well as Host AP support for certain chipsets.
Ghost ridin' the whip! No seriously, I've been wanting to use the Linux host AP features to bring up a mischievous AP that does man-in-the-middle attacks. I'd be connected to some open wifi somewhere, and someone would connect to my netbook and also see an open access point. I'd then give them the upside-downternet: http://www.ex-parrot.com/pete/upside-down-ternet.html
Insightful? He's got the century wrong!
Who's that surfin, Patrick Swayze?!
With Linux you have to recompile the kernel, perform a hardware patch between two delicate components using baling wire, do the hokey-pokey and sacrifice a chicken to Satan. THAT'S why its secure.
Note to Linux fanboys - yes, I was being sarcastic.
Tubby or not tubby. Fat is the question
Never forget - computers do what you tell them to do, not what you meant them to do
I have a mac you insensitive clod, it does what His Steveness (peace be upon him) meant it to do.
If all else fails, immortality can always be assured by spectacular error.
Using Windows is very easy so long as you don't expect to install it with decent hardware support OOTB or with decent security OOTB. It's so easy to use that within an hour online, it's often being used by someone the owner never intended. ;-)