Is it possible for someone to use my connection to the internet for themselves so they don't have to pay?

Question

I have a DESKTOP PC. I pay for my Internet connection.

My neighbor also has a DESKTOP. She/He has a cord connected to it and places it to the window and it pics up other peoples internet so that they don't have to pay.

Can they slow down my computer by doing this? My computer is slower these days and just doesn't seem efficient.

But they did show me that they hooked up their computer and said they no longer have to "pay". I know that this works when someone has a router and a laptop.

What about desktop PC's, because that is what both of us have?

Thank You ahead of time for your answers!

Answer 1

even with a desktop if you have a wireless card you can hack someones network. if they are running a hard line to your internet then yes it can certainly slow down your computer you have no idea what things they may be using it for they could be using a large portion of bandwidth which would slow down your surfing considerably. If you have a wireless network in your home you need to set up a security defense from people using your network.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wi-Fi_Prote...

if you dont have this or dont know how to do it find someone who can show you. It is very important to protect yourself.

If this truly is a hardwired ,meaning they are using a cable to hook up to your internet then call your internet provider, tell them your service is slower than usual and have them come to your house. Dont tell your neighbor they are coming. I am sure they would be VERY INTERESTED in your neighbors activity.

Answer 2

A laptop and a desktop are the same, except one is smaller.

Yes is possible she that she could be receiving a signal using a wireless internet card or usb antenna. If you don't have a router don't worry because that is the only way she could get a signal> through a wireless router that someone else has on their house network, and if you do have a wireless router you can set up a password and she won't be able to access your signal unless you tell her your password.

Answer 3

Yupp.... It'll slow down yours.... Thats because os sharing the bandwidth....  

Answer 4

yeah...

only if u are using a wireless router.....

Answer 5

It depends, if you're using a wireless router, then yes, they're stealing your bandwidth and slowing you down. I'm assuming their device just finds unsecured wireless networks, and connects to the internet through them.

If your router is connected purely by wires. Then you have no worries because there's pretty much no way for him/her to tap into your connection with a wireless device.

It has nothing to do with if you're using a desktop or laptop, how you connect to the internet is the main factor.