Need wireless network program

My friend just got Quest DSL, and the DSL modem they sent him is a wireless one. He wants to see if one of his friends can get a signal on his PC which is like 4-6 houses away, maybe even more, we will be usinig a laptop for this. I was wondering if theres a FREE program that can find wireless networks or hotspots so we can see how far the signal can go. Also if this program can have something to tell you if the wireless hotspot or whatever is open to the public so if it is we can secure it.

Thanks.

 

Windows has software in it - you'll see a little icon in the system tray if you have wireless in your notebook. Double-click that, and hit "Refresh Network List". It will give you a list of any wireless notebooks in range - if there are any.

Chaz

 

Four to six houses away seems like a bit of a stretch.

 

The guy said that he wiped out the HD because it had XP home and installed XP pro, but it still should have that wireless program right?

 

Xp pro does have it. You'll be fine there.

 

you can't connect wirelessly without a wifi card. every wifi card comes with configuration software. 4-5 houses away? maybe, but doubtful. if you can connect, i don't think the signal will be reliable.

 

You can also check out NetStumbler, and you may want to Google "pringle can wireless antenna" if you're feeling industrius.

-Lee

 

Wireless Network Ignition v2.0 Build 352

SingleClick’s Wireless Network Ignition 2.0 will manage the process of getting and staying connected to your wireless network.

You will be able to:

* Eliminate guesswork
* Instantly resolve technical problems
* Avoid the frustration of installing and configuring your wireless network
* Enjoy a simple, secure and private wireless network access at home or on the road

* Simple Wireless Network Setup & Configuration
o Automatically detects all wireless network parameters
o Seamless wireless PC/network configuration
o Step-by-step set-up procedures make wireless connectivity seamless
o Dynamically determines all wireless access points (WAP)
o Provides information and instant connection to specific WAPs
* Powerful, Personal Security
o Encryption wizard easily configures PC
o Auto-generation and management of encryption keys
o Supports popular encryption standards (32-bit, 64-bit, etc.)
* Self-diagnosis and Self-healing
o Sophisticated network debugging engine
o Network failure and auto repair features to resolve problems
* The Wireless Network, to Go
o Instant, safe, and secure connection to wireless networks outside of home environment
o Creates wireless network history and establishes customizable wireless profiles


* Trouble-free wireless network setup and operation
* Safe and secure wireless access
* Eliminate frustrating customer support calls
* Instantly resolve technical issues yourself
Info:
Code:
http://www.singleclicksystems.com/wirelessnet.html


App:
Code:
http://www.singleclicksystems.com/d...o=dlfile&sid=3f75003b05dcee3f67157d54c120c1d4

 

I've actually seen one of those pringles can.

 

The Wireless may not work if he didn't install the drivers for it. Windows doesn't have built in drivers for all wireless cards/chip-sets.

 

Does this work ? Will it solve the intemittent disconnects ? 4 reviews on Amazon were postive - 30 day free trial eh ....

I think next disconnnect (new drivers ) may give this a go...

 

Lol those tin can antenna look interesting. If i have some time i think i'll try it out.