What are Wi-Fi software tools? These tools are very useful in establishing fast and efficient connection to the Internet. Aside from these, Wi-Fi software tools are helpful in wireless network mapping, wireless network traffic assessment, encryption cracking, custom frame generation as well as RF signal strength monitoring. The tools are available in different platforms like Windows, Unix and MacOS.

Multiple Platforms

One of the most used and effective software tools that can be used for multiple platforms is Aircrack-ng. This special WPA-PSK and WEP cracking program is very useful for 802.11 computer networks. This aircracking tool features more efficient WEP attack algorithm PTW. In addition, it supports different OS from Zaurus, Windows and Unix. Many people use this program because it features various tools like packetforge-ng, airtun-ng and airserv-ng.

Windows

Computer users who are in search for useful Wi-Fi software tools for Windows can try NetStumbler, OmniPeek as well as Stumbverter. NetStumbler is one of the computer applications that people can use to identify Wireless Local Area Networks with the use of 802.11g, 802.11a and 802.11b. OmniPeek is very helpful in analyzing software that integrates the applications EtherPeek as well as AiroPeek. Stumbverter is an efficient computer application that allows individuals to convert summary files in NetStumbler to MapPoint 2004 maps. Other tools that can be used in Windows are MacIDChanger and Technitium MAC Address Changer.

Linux

Individuals who are using laptops or computers with operating systems from Linux, some of the Wi-Fi software tools that you can use are CoWPAtty, Wellenreiter and BSD-Airtools. CoWPAtty is a special cracking application that can be used in several protocols like WPA1 as well as WPA2. Wellenreiter is very helpful in auditing and discovering of 802.11 networks. BSD-Airtools is effective in detecting connected nodes and wireless access points.

Mac OS

MacStumbler, Kismet and KisMAC are some of the software tools that are useful in Mac OS. MacStumbler helps people access data nearby 802.11g as well as 802.11b wireless access points. Kismet can be used to detect 802.11 Layer 2 networks. KisMAC supports cards that feature different applications like Orinoco, Cisco Aironet and PrismII.

Defining Wireless Modems

Simply put, wireless modems allow you to connect to a network without using any cable. Instead of using the traditional telephone system, you’ll be surfing the net through wireless signals. With the help of a wireless modem you can connect directly to your internet service provider or to a wireless local area network.

One can also measure the speed of this connection and compare it to broadband and dialup connections. The basic advantage of this connection is that of mobility. With portable computers becoming commonplace, having a mobile internet connection becomes a must. You can’t expect to walk around a coffee shop with your portable computer, laptop, or netbook and have everyone on a leash due to the wires.

Available Interfaces

There are various interfaces available to you when you use this kind of Internet connection. You may have one attach to your PDA or notebook computer while others have one built in. You can buy ones that use PCMCIA, USB, compact flash, or even a serial port. There are also mobile phones that have the capacity to act as a wireless modem.

Supported Networks, Technologies, and Protocols

Modems of this type have been designed to work on certain supported technologies and networks. As you might expect, some of the supported technologies are also the same ones running your mobile phone’s internet connection. Mobile services such as GPRS and EDGE also support networking using this type of modem.

Other technologies that support wireless networking for computers include UMTS, WiMAX, WiBro, HSDPA, and iBurst. With this support for newer technologies, the outlook for this type of wireless Internet promises faster speeds than what we have at the moment.

What to Look for When Buying One

When you’re out to buy a wireless modem you ought to check and compare certain features among various brands. The first thing you’ll usually check would be its speed. Next you should check what protocols are supported, which may include WiFi, EVDO, GPRS, Ethernet, and others. You should also check its frequency band, radio technique, available channels, signal strength, and duplexing capabilities.