| Wireless networks are great and allow us to set up | | | | and password. So all an intruder has to do is login to |
| networks quickly, easily and without the hassle of | | | | your router using the defaults and then lock you out. |
| physically running cables etc. | | | | - Use MAC address filtering - set which devices can |
| However wireless networks need to be secure from | | | | connect to your wireless network by their MAC |
| outside / unauthorised users otherwise people can use | | | | address. Use ipconfig / all to identify your MAC |
| your network for their own malicious intentions. An | | | | address. |
| example of this is people using your wireless | | | | - Use IP filtering or IP address reservations so that only |
| connection to connect to the internet and download | | | | those IP's can access the network. |
| illegal content. As it is your internet connection it is your | | | | - Use Port filtering / blocking to block ports you do not |
| responsibility. | | | | need open. |
| So how do you secure your wireless network? | | | | - Use authentication - either PSK or EAP - DO NOT |
| Well there are several things you can do so here are | | | | LEAVE AUTHENTICATION OPEN. |
| some basic security steps: | | | | - Use encryption to protect your data. WEP and WPA |
| - TURN OFF SSID Broadcasting - Once you have all | | | | are 2 types of encryption however WPA is |
| your required computers (wireless clients / | | | | recommended. |
| devices) on your network, TURN OFF SSID | | | | - Set logon hours so that people cannot access your |
| broadcasting so that no one can see your wireless | | | | network out of hours. |
| network. | | | | - Use a wireless network analyser such as |
| - Change the name of your SSID from default to | | | | Netstumbler (free) to test your network. |
| something else. For example a SSID named Netgear | | | | Using the above wireless network security steps will |
| easily identifies your network and its hardware. | | | | help protect your wireless network from unauthorised |
| - Change default router username and passwords. | | | | use and prying eyes. |
| Most routers have the same, default admin username | | | | |