BackTrack is a linux based OS that can be run from a DVD/ USB memory stick or hard disk. It contains hundreds of "hacking" tools that can be used for penetration testing a system. You can do anything from crash cisco systems to cracking WEP and WPA wireless networks. Whatever "penetration testing" you want to do, there is most likely a tool in this distribution that delivers.

Latest news: BackTrack 4 available - BackTrack Downloads

Now you can get any of your neighbouring WPA passwords cracked for US 34$, a new cloud-based hacking service can crack a WPA network password in just 20 minutes!

The WPA Cracker service bills itself as a useful tool for security auditors and penetration testers who want to know if they could break into certain types of WPA networks. It works because of a known vulnerability in Pre-shared Key (PSK) networks, usually used by home and small-business users.

To use the service, the tester submits a small “handshake” file that contains an initial back-and-forth communication between the WPA router and a PC. Based on that information, WPA Cracker can then tell whether the network seems vulnerable to this type of attack or not.

Researchers say they have created a special kind of paint which can block out wireless signals.

It means security-conscious wireless users could block their neighbours from being able to access their home network - without having to set up encryption.

The paint contains an aluminium-iron oxide which resonates at the same frequency as wi-fi - or other radio waves - meaning the airborne data is absorbed and blocked.

By coating an entire room, signals can't get in and, crucially, can't get out.

Developed at the University of Tokyo, the paint could cost as little as £10 per kilogram, researchers say.

Introduction

A Wireless Repeater, also known as a Wireless Client Bridge, or Range Expander, is just a wireless client (like your laptop) which, at the same time, can also be an access point, independent of the SSID and type of encryption used.

This How-To provides step-by-step instructions for creating a Wireless Repeater appliance: a device that you can place anywhere and it will wirelessly repeat a signal, onto another wireless network (with or without security).