Computerworld - With other cities moving ahead on municipal WiFi plans, Boston looks to get in on the action with a summit on May 19. Beantown residents are being encouraged to turn out to discuss how WiFi could be used to help bridge the digital divide in the city. The summit, set to run from 8:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Museum of Science, is an outgrowth of efforts by City Councillor John Tobin to push the issue. The Boston Wireless Access Group has more information.
Microsoft releases XP SP2 WiFi update
In case you missed this from last week, Microsoft has released a WiFi security upgrade for Windows XP users running Service Pack 2. The update adds support for security features in the 802.11i standard not already included in products that support WPA. "This update enhances the Windows XP wireless client software with support for the new Wi-Fi Alliance certification for wireless security. The update also makes it easier to connect to secure public spaces that are equipped with wireless Internet access...." You have to be running XP with Service Pack 2, and you'll need to restart your computer after the installation.
WiFi spoofing warning issued
If you're one of those wireless road warriors who loves hitting the hot spots at Starbucks, Panera Bread and other cozy WiFi corners, you'll want to check out this piece on evil twins. No, not the ones in scary movies -- the ones would-be hackers set up to steal your data. Evil twins look like genuine WiFi access points, but they operate in the same way as spoofed Web sites. You log onto the "wrong" WiFi hot spot, and hackers sniff out and collect your passwords, financial data and credit card numbers.
Where to go for municipal wireless info
If you've been following the debate over municipal WiFi plans -- and whether or not they're a good use of taxpayer money -- then you'll definitiely want to check out the latest report from MuniWireless.com. The 38-page PDF document offers a detailed and up-to-date look at the issue.
WiFi coming to the T in Boston?
If you live in or around Boston, WiFi access could be coming to a T stop near you. According to this short story at Beta News, subway riders in the Boston area will have wireless access at the Park Street, Downtown Crossing, Government Center and State Street stations, as well as in connecting tunnels, this fall. The service will be provided by InSite Wireless, and may be expanded across the
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