| One of the most important, yet | | | | Wireless security can easily be implemented by |
| under-implemented features of any home wireless | | | | following a few guidelines. One of the most |
| network is security. Many people worry only | | | | important features is MAC address filtering. Each |
| about file sharing and network printing. But many | | | | computer has a unique MAC address. In your |
| people underestimate the need for security or | | | | network configuration you enter the MAC |
| simply do not understand it. Security is important | | | | addresses of your PCs and laptops. Any other |
| because unlike conventional wired networks, | | | | computer that is not specified in your network will |
| wireless signals are transmitted across a broader | | | | be blocked from accessing it. |
| spectrum and thus can be easily picked up. | | | | Another important network security feature is |
| With the ever growing threat of identity theft | | | | disabling the broadcast of the SSID, or name of |
| you want to take the steps necessary to secure | | | | your network. It is best to refer to the |
| your home wireless network. There are some | | | | manufacturer's documentation for specifics. Most |
| minor threats and major threats to your personal | | | | of the required security features are built in the |
| information. On the minor side an intruder may | | | | wireless router and this is the first point that |
| easily connect to your unsecured wireless | | | | needs to be secured. Many of the security |
| network and use it for free internet access. This | | | | settings are turned off by default. Make sure you |
| is called piggybacking. These are minor threats to | | | | turn them on for best security. |
| your privacy. | | | | You can secure and manage your network |
| A major threat is a hacker who is looking to | | | | yourself if you have the time or you can buy a |
| attack your network and hack into it and access | | | | home networking software package that does it |
| your files and personal data. Once they have this | | | | for you automatically. There are some good |
| they can easily start stealing your identity or | | | | programs out there for under $30 that will secure |
| selling it to someone who will. | | | | and repair your home network. |