iStumbler for Mac

iStumbler for Mac scans for Wi-Fi networks in your area and then presents them to you in a list, so no matter where you are, you'll always be able to connect. There is a ton of information supplied about each network in this program, and the list is constantly updated in real time, so you'll always know exactly what you're dealing with.

Pros

Good data: In addition to signal strength and security settings, this app also gives you information on various other network characteristics including signal, noise, channel, frequency, and protocol associated with each network detected.

More than Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is actually only one of four different sections this app contains and that you can move between using tabs on the left-hand side of the screen. Other options include Bluetooth, Bonjour, and locations.

Cons

Constant prompting: The trial version of this app produces nearly constant pop-ups asking you to make a purchase. At the beginning, this happens every few minutes, but it becomes more and more frequent until the pop-ups are appearing less than a minute apart, which is pretty excessive and actually interferes with your ability to test the program.

Trouble closing: This app failed to close during testing, and it blocked our computer from shutting down as well. Multiple attempts were unsuccessful, and then it finally crashed on its own.

Bottom Line

iStumbler for Mac is a good tool for helping you find open Wi-Fi networks nearby. The presentation and thoroughness of information is definitely a plus, although the crashing and inability to close are issues that may make you think twice about a purchase, especially since the nagging pop-ups make it so hard to get a feel for the program. The trial is free, though, and the app costs $20 to purchase.

Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of iStumbler for Mac 100.117.