Ethical Considerations
Just because an AP is open does not mean that you have automatic consent to associate with that network and use its bandwidth or network resources without permission. The problem is that the 802.11 protocol, in its current state, does not have any method for indicating that an AP is part of a free network. So, if find yourself in a new coffee shop, unless there is a sign on the wall indicating permission (or you know the owner of the AP), the best bet is not to associate. Sometimes, it's very difficult to figure out exactly who owns the AP and your only clue is the SSID. This creates a bit of a gray area, particularly if the SSID indicates some kind of free network, so please be careful and use good judgment. Unless you ...
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