is wlan free of charge?

Question

my device can pick up wi-fi signals. can i access it and not make its owner pay for my access? can a single wi-fi server serve many devices at the same time?

thanks for answering...just a lost kid here.

Answer 1

The protocol for wlan 802.11a, b,g are unlicensed aka free. But service provider may charge to provide to authentication and access i.e they might provide you login, password or keyonly if you pay a charge. Others may provide it for free. Yes a single wifi router can serve multiple devices.

Answer 2

Well its good you asked the question. Let me answer it a different way.

Lets suppose your neighbor left his car running in the driveway and ran into the house, is his car free to use?
Just because he is really not thinking doesn't make his car free now does it. Neither does that fact he left his wifi unlocked. He may not be smart but if you use it you just stole something!

There ARE indeed some free networks for your use but they are usually well known and advertised. Some cities even offer wifi access as a city service (most are now charging for it because it isn't cheap to run or maintain.)

If you need wireless and dont have your own DSL line and wireless router tallk to your neighbors see if they will let you connect and maybe "share" the expense.

Answer 3

No wifi is free of charge. Somebody pays for the service to the internet, then provides the service. To use any wireless signal without he owner's consent is illegal, even if they would not charge for it's use. There are heavy prison sentences for stealing bandwidth.

Answer 4

There are many companies that broadcast wifi for free, generally to customers. Restaurants, Cafe', truck stops,..
You must be careful. If it is someone who does not wish you on their LAN you could face criminal charges, for theft of service.