Author: Wayne Slavin

Just when you felt sure the fastest wireless networks move data at 54 megabits per second, Netgear introduces a wireless firewall router and PC Card that it says will transfer data at 108 mbps--speedier than 100-mbps ethernet. Via [pcworld.com]

The security of wireless networks is of "critical concern," according to a report presented to the United Nations on Monday. Via [wired.com]

Intel is building into a forthcoming microchip an ability to let desktop computers act as a hub in home and office wireless networks, taking aim at the market for stand-alone wireless access points. Via [wired.com]

Wireless security for home networks is in the spotlight following an unusual arrest in Canada, where a man stands accused of downloading child pornography over a hijacked Wi-Fi connection. Via [news.com.com]

Hong Kong's dominant telecom player, PCCW has announced that it will co-operate with Intel to explore new WiMAX fixed wireless broadband technologies and to maximize opportunities in the delivery of broadband data to the consumer and enterprise market segments. Via [cmpnetasia.com]

The rise in home wireless networks has apparently spawned a new variety of Peeping Toms. In an October study on home-networking trends by wireless-gateway provider 2Wire, 44 percent of home Wi-Fi users admit they would peek at their neighbors' wireless networks if given the opportunity. Some 21 percent can see their neighbors' wireless networks, and...

Wireless local-area networks are notoriously insecure. But that's not stopping companies from cobbling together technologies. Via [eweek.com]

If you have ever connected to the Internet through a wireless hot spot at a Starbucks, McDonald's or other business, you know how convenient it can be. Unfortunately, the setup is convenient for other people, too -- hackers intent on stealing your log-in information for their own use. Via [computerworld.com]

Chipmaker Intel is developing new Wi-Fi products as it looks to expand its influence beyond the notebook market. Via [news.com.com]

Verizon Communications is cutting in half the number of hot spots it planned to install in New York City by the end of the year. Via [news.com.com]

Despite the failure of IP1 and Nextgen Networks this year, which sent $1 billion worth of investment down the drain, another telecom start-up is asking the public for $100 million to take on Telstra in Sydney next year. Via [smh.com.au]

Wireless security, or the lack thereof, is one of the hot button issues facing most corporations nowadays. The only security item higher on the agenda is MS security, or the lack thereof. Why can't any security discussions be about how effective a product is? Wouldn't that be an interesting twist? Via [theinquirer.net]

Executives from wireless products maker Spirea AB and chip producer Intel Corp. are working with venture capitalists to complete a $4.5 million investment in a Dublin company they formed this year. Via [columbus.bizjournals.com]

Mixed fortunes for enterprise WLANs, if the latest crop of research results are anything to go by. A survey by investment bank Goldman Sachs found that wireless Lans are now rated ‘low priority’ for IT spending, according to a panel of 100 CIOs. In the same survey last year, WLANs rated in the top category....

Federal officials this week accused a third Michigan man of conspiring to steal credit card numbers from the Lowe's chain of home improvement stores by taking advantage of an unsecured wi-fi network at store in suburban Detroit. Via [theregister.co.uk]