Published by www.mtlwifi.com on 15 Oct 2010 at 03:35 pm
Avoid “Free Public Wifi”
How many of us have been tempted to click on that unsecured “Free Public Wifi,” “Linksys,” or “hpsetup” network at a spot where many people are using their computers? It’s a common urge, but one which it’s important to avoid. These networks, far from being free computer access, create a connection between your computer and someone else’sand if that someone else is aware of the connection and has impure intent, this could mean trouble for your personal files.These networks result from an old Windows XP bug which automatically creates a network when your ordinary ones aren’t available. Lacking originality, the computer names this network after the last network you connected to. Since this network is unsecured, anybody can connect to it. The bug has been referred to as a “zombie” network, because just like that infamous metaphor of spreading contagion, a connected computer will create the same network the next time it’s out of range of its favorites. This bug has been removed by a Windows Service Pack update, so make sure to keep your computer updated if you haven’t already, and make sure not to fall for the zombie network’s alluring title. Otherwise, your personal files could end up in a real horror story.