• I run Windows, what software do I need?
• I run Linux/*BSD, what software do I need?
• How much does this stuff cost?

Depending on your operating system, there are numerous software packages available for use.

Most people running Windows, use NetStumbler. It has support for many different types of wireless devices and GPS units. It is called an "active scanner"; it sends a request to all wireless devices in the area. The wireless devices see the request, and replys with their information. NetStumbler logs the information and keeps track of every time it sees a given wireless device. NetStumbler is very easy to install and use.

got feedback? got feedback?

Any feedback you provide is sent to the owner of this FAQ for possible incorporation and shown publically as well.

by localhost
last modified: 2005-02-27 14:31:07

For Linux/*Bsd users, the tool of choice is Kismet.

Kismet, unlike NetStumbler, is a "passive scanner". This means that instead of probing wireless devices for information, it sits and waits for the information to come to it. This is generally the preferred method because it is more difficult (if not impossible) to detect a passive scanner interecepting network information.

Kismet is somewhat difficult to install, if one is not used to Linux/*BSD, but there are tutorials readily available. For FreeBSD users, there is a package in ports for kismet.

got feedback? got feedback?

Any feedback you provide is sent to the owner of this FAQ for possible incorporation and shown publically as well.

by localhost
last modified: 2005-02-27 14:31:14

Almost all wireless software is free.

Many pieces of software are open source and are released under the GPL licence.

got feedback? got feedback?

Any feedback you provide is sent to the owner of this FAQ for possible incorporation and shown publically as well.

by localhost