Abstract: Implementations of the present invention provide systems, methods, and apparatus for stopping unauthorized transactions before they are processed, as well as for creating and using one or more sub-accounts. For example, a debit or credit account can be activated or deactivated at will through various spend control mechanisms, which can be limited by specified time periods, numbers of transactions, and/or monetary amounts. Further implementations also relate to using a unique 6-digit identification number (or biometric information) that is known only to the account granting institution and the primary account owner for the various types of activation/deactivation.

Abstract: A software and hardware “kit” provides users the ability to seamlessly connect to local area networks at temporary accommodations and remote locations. The “kit” provides the end user with the ability to install wireless network interface cards on a computer, while bypassing the standard “Plug and Play” process, and provides the system configuration necessary to enable the hardware functionality. This will also allow the end user to immediately connect to the local area network, such as a wireless local area network, provided that the user's system is physically located within signal range. This process may be accomplished without the requirement that hardware actually be present and without rebooting the computer system, thus providing a novel improvement over the standard “Plug and Play” process.