Amen. I'm in exactly the same situation. Took me a few years to get there but now I'm totally happy with it. I actually like the fact that I have to do everything myself. That's what keeps it interesting (and challenging once in a while).
Are multiple devices connected to the same hotspot able to communicate? I don't want any random person in the coffeeshop to be able to access my machine.
Provided the random person in the coffeeshop has a Karma account, then they would be able to use the same hotspot. I believe the product information states that up to 8 devices can be connected to your hotspot.
I think the question is whether two devices connected to the same hotspot can send packets to each other. Ideally, you want to isolate them as much as possible, letting them connect only to the Internet.
Thanks for the clarification. I now understand the parent's point and it's a valid concern.
However, for a first launch, I'm wildly speculating that they didn't consider this. If you're going to share your bandwidth and are concerned about this, Karma will probably suggest that you disconnect from your own portal.
Karma's reasoning is probably as follows:
* Connecting via wifi usually implies a mobile device of some type (phone or laptop);
* When connecting to a public wifi hotspot, most mobile devices can see (and attack) each other on the same SSID;
* If you are normally willing to operate your mobile device in public wifi hotspots, you'd probably have no problem operating in similarly (and possibly hostile) conditions with your own access point;
* One hopes that you and (at least) Karma have the slight comfort of knowing exactly which Karma customer joined your hotspot and tried to attack you, versus an anonymous device in a public wifi hotspot.
That's indeed what I'm referring to. However, for me there is a difference between connecting to a public wifi spot and my own mobile hotspot. I do agree that knowing exactly who connects is an advantage. Just something to keep in mind when you sign up with them.
