HotSpot Finders Key Terms

Seek out these hotspot finders key terms

Hotspot finders are ways to find places that offer wireless Internet access. Connecting to a public hotspot can be risky, as you may need to worry about the hotspot's security. Learning how hotspots work can help you understand how to go about making your connection secure.

One way to find a hotspot is to buy a hotspot sniffer. You can carry a hotspot sniffer in your pocket to check for hotspots as you travel.

 

Hotspot security

Several software applications exist that change a user's connection to a wireless network into a virtual private network. This makes the connection secure from anyone who might want to maliciously access the information transmitted over the connection.
Try: Read an article about hotspot security at Wi-Fi Planet, a division of WebMediaBrands.

Wireless local area network

A local area network (LAN) is a way for a group of computers to share information. When you put the word "wireless" in front of it, it means that the computers use wireless technology to communicate instead of cables. A WLAN is often the way computers share an Internet connection and other information.
Try: Find a definition of WLAN at GSMArena.com.

Access point

An access point connects wireless devices to the rest of the network. Since connection speeds are faster through cables than wireless connections, part of the network usually connects via Ethernet cables.
Try: Find out more about access points at About.com.

Gateway or router

A router is a device that controls the flow of network communication. When you use it to allow wireless access to the network or the Internet, it can be a gateway. All routers can connect to computers using Ethernet cables, but most modern routers also provide wireless access.
Try: Check out a glossary of terms related to wireless computing at Quantum-Wireless.com.

Virtual private network (VPN)

A virtual private network (VPN) is a way of making part of a larger public network secure, so you can send and receive information without the users of the public network accessing it.
Try: Check out a Wi-Fi glossary, including the term VPN, at Comtrad Cable.

Hotspot sniffers

Hotspot sniffers are small, handheld devices that can tell you whether the area you're in has wireless Internet access. They save you the time of unpacking and booting up a laptop computer only to find you can't get service.
Try: Read mini-reviews of several models of hotspot sniffers at PC Today.

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