Auto-connect to a WiFi network
Platform : Windows XP, Windows Vista
Type: freeware
Manufacturer: Devicescape Software
Size: 2.2MB
Rating: 4
Verdict:
Possibly a useful tool if you're often on the move, require multi-hotspot
access, but can never remember the various usernames and passwords required to
connect
System Requirements:
In theory, the widespread use of WiFi is great. You could take your mobile
device with you on the road and grab your email from nearly every location,
whether it’s a train station, the local Starbucks or in the middle of a major
city. Most mobile devices will automatically pick up the strongest signal and
offer you the chance to connect.
The problem is that the popularity of WiFi means that it’s darned difficult
to know which networks to trust, the network you’re subscribed to connect and
also the various usernames and passwords you require to connect. Sure, you could
write them down on a piece of paper or store them in a text document on your
laptop, but this leads to security issues and you have to refer to them to
connect. If the hotspot uses a web form to connect, you need to store this
information, which isn’t always possible on a mobile device.
Devicescape is a tool for your laptop (Windows or Mac), mobile device or your
iPhone. It enables you to setup an account through Devicescape and the various
networks and hotspots that are your preference. Enter your username, password
and other information in to Devicescape and it should auto-populate any web form
and hotspot login of your choice, when you want to connect.
Essentially you won’t need to remember any hotspot preferences, username or
password to connect. It should be handled automatically, in the background. Bear
in mind though, if you auto-connect, you might be using WiFi without realising
and may be charged for the usage, whilst your mobile device is sitting in your
pocket.
Note that the download here is for the Windows version. There are versions
for Mac OS X, iPhone, iPod Touch and other mobile devices.