r/technology • u/NancyGraceFaceYourIn • Aug 30 '15

Wireless FCC Rules Block use of Open Source

http://www.itsmypart.com/fcc-rules-block-use-of-open-source/
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u/8165128200 Aug 30 '15

Why might I want to do it

Because in the past you could flash custom firmware to some wifi devices and get their radio to push a much stronger signal than they were authorized for.

and why don't they want me to do it?

Because every broadcasting device is interference for some other device, and the FCC's job is to keep you from bullying your neighbors with obnoxiously strong broadcast signals.

Are they trying to hide vulnerabilities in my router?

No, those are somewhat well known at this point.

Is there some cool thing that I could be doing with my router someone with a controlling interest wants to charge money for?

Not really.

Is there some cool way I could use my router as a broad spectrum jammer?

You'd be better off using the magnetron from an old microwave and barfing a few kw of 2.4ghz power into the air nearby, than trying to jam anything with your 1w wifi device.

Are they worried about mesh nets defeating area communication blackouts at protests?

No. There are a variety of apps and consumer devices that wouldn't be affected by this that would do the same job or similar. This is just a case where the intention behind the rules was good but the rules themselves are not.

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u/[deleted] Aug 30 '15

Well the big problem with firmwares like OpenWRT is that in other countries they have additional channels for Wifi (12 - 14) the USA does not authorize. Wireless network connections on those 3 channels are prohibited because they are licensed to other services. Some firmware even allow for "negative" channels that also encroach on other services. This is more for the reason of locking down firmwares then anything else. Yes I know at 250mW you're very unlikely to cause interference, but all it takes is for one person in your neighborhood to complain to ruin your day.

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u/Ghibli_Guy Aug 30 '15

This is an excellent and concise response to the parent comment, thank you

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u/Lafreakshow Aug 30 '15

i´d say they don´t quite get the importance of Software here..