Security For Computer Users

Help in Securing your Wireless Network

Like everything else that involves the internet, there is no absolute protection for wireless networks. Those with intent will try to break in so you need to layer your security measures for deterrence. If you secure the wireless end of your system, protect your computers and follow safe practices it's more likely intruders will move on to another, easier more vulnerable system.

Change the SSID default setting and turn its broadcast off

Service Set Identifier (SSID) identifies the network name

Wireless network devices use it to tell wireless networks apart

If a home user doesn't change the "out-of-the-box" setting, hackers who know that the network exists can systematically enter all the known default settings until they hit upon the right name
When changing your SSID, don't use your address or your last name

The SSID shouldn't identify who or where you are

Change the default password

Use a strong password to protect your access point. (See the Safe practices section for more on passwords)

Filter MAC addresses.

A Media Access Control (MAC) address identifies each device attached to a wireless network. You can enable MAC address filtering to specify which computers have access to your network.
Though some hackers may be able to get around this, it's another layer of protection.

Enable encryption.

Use the highest level of encryption available to your network
- New models use Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)
- Older versions use Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)

Final Words

You can secure your wireless network it just takes a little effort.

Protecting you Inbox

Next, we return to e-mail security

As always, should you have any questions about your computer, do not hesitate in picking up the phone or writing... better to contact me and be sure.

Tom @ Tata Computers