You are currently browsing the ACE Computer Services Blog weblog archives for the day March 19, 2007.
March 19, 2007 by AC.
Setting up a home wireless network is not a difficult task and having wireless for laptops is a great convenience. Unfortunately most people do not adequately secure the wireless network, allowing neighbors to jump on a network connection, or worse, open settings & files up for others to view.
Out of the box, and following the basic instructions, most wireless networks are open, allowing any wireless device to both see & access the wireless network. Many products available today have range that extends beyond the home - to neighbors, etc.
Depending on the wireless router or access point you have it is a good idea to make sure the network is secure. First, you should use a security setting that requires a key to access the network or a filter to allow only certain machines on the network. The simpler form is a key, using an encryption code in WEP, WPA or WPA2 standards. Not to get too technical, but look for this type of setting in the administrative or setup console of the wireless unit. This would require you to enter the key from your laptop when accessing the wireless network. This is usually a one-time task, with the key “remembered” for future connections. It is a simple, effective means of keeping your neighbors off your network.
It is also worth checking for an administrative password and resetting the password. Most wireless manufacturers use the same administrator username & password for their products. Having a secure password on the administrative account for the wireless device ensures only you will be able to access the setup or settings of your wireless network - again keeping a knowing neighbor out of configuring your network for themselves.
For some additional in depth and technical information take a look at this Wikipedia site online at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wireless_security
Need assistance setting up, securing or confirming security on your wireless network? Call ACE Computer Services today at 732-801-9310 or visit http://www.acecomputernj.com/.
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