| s of the essence. Typically, one thing matters to | | | | It’s also a good idea that you install |
| new users of wireless, getting connected and | | | | firewalls on all devices that connect to the |
| browsing that first website. While wireless | | | | wireless network. Even if the wireless router is |
| connectivity can accomplish this, it’s best | | | | firewalled, it’s important to also install |
| to set up your wireless connection securely | | | | firewalls on all computers that are connected to |
| before venturing out into cyberspace. Below are | | | | the wifi network. It’s important that these |
| some tips to help secure your wireless network. | | | | firewalls be set up correctly and block any |
| Change the default admin password. Admin | | | | intrusions that may compromise your wifi |
| passwords are easily figured out by attackers | | | | network. |
| when they are left as the default. Not changing | | | | Position your wireless router close to the center |
| your wireless admin password opens your | | | | of your home. Although the reach of wifi |
| network to attack and can lead to many | | | | networks can vary greatly, it’s important |
| problems depending on the attacker’s | | | | to not allow the signal to float around great |
| agenda. | | | | distances from the main access point. It virtually |
| Another wireless security measure you will need | | | | impossible to stop all leakage from exiting your |
| to take is turning on encryption. Enabling WEP | | | | home. But minimizing the risk to your wifi network |
| encryption on your wireless network will help you | | | | will help to protect it. |
| protect your privacy and all your info | | | | Another good idea for wifi network security is to |
| won’t be floating around outside your | | | | not allow broadcast of the SSID. Your router |
| home waiting to be picked up by a passerby. | | | | may have SSID broadcasting set up by default; |
| It’s important to remember that all your | | | | however you should be able to change this setting |
| devices on the wireless network will need to have | | | | in the configuration. This feature is only useful for |
| the same encryption. So find the strongest | | | | mobile environments, and is not needed in home |
| encryption possible that will work on all devices of | | | | wifi networks. |
| the wireless network. | | | | These are just a few tips to securing your wifi |
| Stop the auto-connect feature. Do not allow your | | | | network. It’s always a good idea to check |
| devices to auto-connect. Allowing auto-connect | | | | for firmware updates to your router as new |
| may connect to a network that you don’t | | | | exploits and vulnerabilities arise. Some routers will |
| particularly want. Example, you don’t want | | | | have an auto update feature and it’s |
| your laptop connecting to your neighbor’s | | | | important to use it. |
| network and sending info. | | | | |