Protect Your Wireless Network
Convenience carries special security risks
The easiest way to create a home network for multiple computers is to set up a wireless network instead of wiring your house for multiple Internet connections.
Wireless networks offer more mobility, which is great for convenience, but can affect security. The same technology that lets you use your laptop in any room of the house could potentially let your neighbor or a stranger log on to your network.
How wireless networks work
A wireless network sends and receives signals through a central device called a wireless router. These signals connect computers to the Internet and to each other. Wireless routers can send signals several hundred feet, through walls and other solid structures. It's not uncommon for a person to inadvertently pick up their neighbor's signal. Although you may not mind your neighbor using your signal, keep in mind that strangers could also gain access to your network.
Most people who access other people's wireless networks are simply looking for a free way to get onto the Internet. However, open access to your wireless network can potentially give people information on your Web surfing habits, and might provide access to your computer and the information you have stored there.
Simple precautions offer increased security
To help protect your wireless network and the information on your computer, follow these simple steps. If you're not sure how to implement them, ask someone to help you. A good person to ask is the person who installed your wireless network.
- Encrypt all information transmitted over your wireless network.
- Require authentication for any computer that logs on to your wireless network and change the default authentication password once every three months.
- Set up your wireless router to accept information from only the computers in your home using Media Access Control (MAC) addresses.
- If your current operating system does not have one, add a firewall to each computer in your home.
- Avoid storing sensitive materials on your computer, including credit card numbers, social security numbers, or other personal information.
- Place the wireless router in a central location in your house. Avoid placing it near exterior walls and windows to help decrease the signal strength outside of the intended coverage area.
- Use automatic updates to ensure that your operating system and related security tools are up-to-date.
- Install anti-virus software and anti-spyware on your computers and keep it up-to-date.
- Stay current with the security programs and alerts by visiting trusted computer security companies and Web sites.
- If you are cannot enable encryption, connect to the Internet with a network cable when sending financial or other critical information over the Internet.
Although no method is 100 percent secure, these steps can help you deter or prevent unauthorized use of your wireless network. And they can help protect your personal and financial information as you surf the web.
