A WiFi finder is a small, portable, battery operated device that locates wireless hotspots so you don't have to turn on your laptop to see if a network is available. The most basic model is about the size of a mouse, though there are also very small keychain models.

Most WiFi finders have a single button and three or more LED lights. Depressing the button starts the device searching for WiFi signals. Most finders search in the 802.11b/g bands. If no networks are detected, the LEDs remain off. A weak signal will initiate one light, while the strongest signal initiates all LEDs. If only one light is steady, you can head in a direction that causes more LEDs to light. When lights flash, the signal is intermittent or weak.

A more expensive WiFi Finder might have additional capabilities to make things even easier. For example, one available model is built like a small flip phone, where the flipped end acts as a rotating high gain antenna. This makes it easy to hone in on the direction of the signal and head towards that area. Once you have located a network, the USB port on this model allows you to attach the WiFi finder to your laptop and instantly connect to the network. This eliminates the step of having to configure each hotspot in the laptop's wireless interface. Furthermore, the advanced WiFi finder can indicate whether or not a network is secure, saving time and hassle. Yet another advantage of this model is that once it connects to the USB port, its batteries are recharged, eliminating the need to replace them.

When considering a WiFi finder, one of the specifications to pay particular attention to is how far the device scans. Less expensive models might scan up to 150 feet (46 meters), while other models can have the capacity to scan 300 feet (92 m) or more. The ability to scan not only opens the user up to more possibilities to connect in any given area, but also improves signal quality. For example, a WiFi finder that scans up to 300 feet will provide better reception at 150 feet than a WiFi finder that is already at its outer limits of functionality at that range.

With time, WiFi finders will likely improve in features and drop in price. As of fall 2005, basic models sell for about US$29, while advanced models can cost $79 or more. If your laptop is older, it may have USB 1.1 ports. Be sure the WiFi finder you choose is backwards compatible, if you require it, as most hotspot finders with USB are made to comply with newer USB 2.0 standards. WiFi finders are available everywhere wireless products are sold.