Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

You've logged onto a public hotspot at some great location. This time, let's say you're connected poolside at some great hotel in a warm location. So far, all is well and good.

When you connected to the Wi-Fi hotspot provider, say T-Mobile Hotspot or Wayport, you were probably authenticated. That means you had to provide a login identification and a password, in part so that the Wi-Fi provider would know who to bill for your time online.

But beyond this authentication, there is no security at a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Transmissions are not, for the most part, encrypted. Wireless networks are inherently less secure than wireline networks because anyone can pick up the signals. Without encryption, tapping into ...

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