Re: How safe / unsafe is Free Open WiFi?

[amatachick () gmail com]

Tony,

Free/Open WiFi networks are inherently less secure than wired networks because of the way the data travels. Instead of 
packets being sent over a wire they are sent out into the air. When packets are sent over a wire one must be either 
connected to the network transmitting the packets to see the packets or have physical access to the line and place a 
sniffer on it. When packets are sent over the air anyone in range (and the range can be pretty large depending on the 
type of antenna) can see all the packets. There is no longer a need to be connected to the network. So basically, 
anything sent clear text can be read by those around you. This is especially true in crowded environments such as 
airports or coffee houses.

I think it's fine to use Public Wifi for a connection to the internet, it's just necessary to realize that anything you 
type in can be read by the general public. 

As long as you transmit public information, you're fine. I wouldn't, however, transmit sensitive information in such a 
fashion.

Hope this helps!

Amy Hagerman