It is funny to read when people say EarthLink went bad when it merged with MindSpring. MindSpring customers are prone to say that service went down with the merger as well. I suppose it really means that customers have a problem with the merger, not the EarthLink or MindSpring parts specifically.
Even a "private" open network that is broadcasting into a public area can be used. If I can find a wireless connection without trespassing on anybody's property that does not require any authentication, I believe anybody could reasonably presume that it was intended to be used.
An open network with no authentication scheme or other access restrictions invites usage. This is different than cracking their WEP password scheme or forging a MAC address. Those are the equivalents of breaking in and taking something not freely offered. A wide open network is offering free access. You have to ask permission to physically be on their property, but if you can access it from your own property or other public area then you should be fine.
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It is funny to read when people say EarthLink went bad when it merged with MindSpring. MindSpring customers are prone to say that service went down with the merger as well. I suppose it really means that customers have a problem with the merger, not the EarthLink or MindSpring parts specifically.
Even a "private" open network that is broadcasting into a public area can be used. If I can find a wireless connection without trespassing on anybody's property that does not require any authentication, I believe anybody could reasonably presume that it was intended to be used.
An open network with no authentication scheme or other access restrictions invites usage. This is different than cracking their WEP password scheme or forging a MAC address. Those are the equivalents of breaking in and taking something not freely offered. A wide open network is offering free access. You have to ask permission to physically be on their property, but if you can access it from your own property or other public area then you should be fine.
A company that has to answer to Wall Street financial analysts will not be able to do this work, that much has been demonstrated clearly.