Is there a way to access wireless internet without having a network key to a protected network?

Answer 1

Its called wardriving, you need the right wireless adaptor (atheros chipsets are best) and the right software (airodump/aircrack) to capture packets of information, if you capture enough packets you can crack the wep encription.
Although it has to be said that in most countries this isn't particularly legal, unless your using it maliciously there's very little chance of you getting caught and prosecuted.
If you're only using spare bandwith on some wealthy bussinesses broadband connection, then your'e not really doing any harm are you?

Answer 2

You could drive around until you find an unprotected Wireless access point, but it's not a long-term solution to getting your internet. Also, an open access point may be able to grab info you enter into web pages while you're surfing through it - you would need to subscribe to a SSH service (about $15-$18 per month) which encrypts all your data so it can't be intercepted.

Access points don't have to be set up with encryption - they work perfectly without, but then all the local wardrivers park in your front drive to steal your bandwidth, so WEP or WAP is needed.

Answer 3

No. Thus the word "protected". Unless you know the passphrase or password then you can't access another person's wireless router/access point.

Answer 4

no, if the access point is secured with a key than you need the key to access it. your system may connect to it, but it will say limited or no connectivy.

Answer 5

No, you either need the key or to crack the key.

Doing either is irresponsible and careless.

btw, it's cracking not hacking.

Answer 6

Yes. Break the key. (that is illegal and you can be prosecuted for it)

Answer 7

yes its called hacking and unless you are good at it then no you can't.