Network Security - Wi-Fi Security

Is your Wi-Fi network secure?

The ever increasing needs for information and services has made the use of Internet practically unavoidable. Recognizing the importance of internet in fulfilling these needs, further enhancement in technology is being done regularly to provide easy internet access to users across the globe.

Wireless networking is one such technology that helps users to stay connected with the world through internet wirelessly. Also known as Wi-Fi, it proves out to be a convenient way to wirelessly access internet permitting electronic devices to wirelessly exchange data over a computer network.

But with the ease and convenience of cable free network availability over a wide area, comes the risk of illegitimate access of the network by cyber hooligans. The unlawful sharing of a network with such cyber-thugs can put users’ privacy under question, revealing private information like passwords, bank account details, photos, videos, etc.

Understanding the security threats hovering over the wireless network, securing it with suitable defense mechanism becomes an essential task of every internet-savvy user.

 

Network Pilferage

The action of tracing and exploiting security-exposed wireless LANs is known as war driving. With an inadequately protected Wi-Fi network, unauthorized users may gain access to network to get free internet or may be to accomplish their nefarious goals.

In an urge to obtain quick and easy access to internet, users tend to accept default settings of the network, leaving it vulnerable to fraud, abuse and even cyber-crime. An open network may invite cyber hooligans to distribute child pornographic content; acquire personal information; or build attacks on other computers/networks.

Network Security Steps

But with the following precautionary measures at user’s end, such network security threats may be restrained.

Router Manual: Every router offers different features in different locations which must be studied carefully before use.

Change Default Passwords: The default usernames and passwords of the router must be changed immediately.

Turn on Encryption: As most routers are compatible with an inbuilt data encryption options like WEP, WPA and WPA2, WPA2 encryption must be used for better security of the network.

Change Default SSID: SSID is the name of the network. Hackers can easily crack network security once they know the brand of the router as mentioned in the default SSID by entering default usernames and passwords of that particular brand. Also, avoid using personal information like name, address, etc. as it allows criminals in the vicinity to locate you.

Turn On Mac Address Filtering:  Every network device (router, wireless card, network card, etc.) consists of a Mac address, a number similar to 06:R5:J8:23:8M:B4 which identifies your network device.  Mac filtering allows only the Mac addresses logged in the router to access the network restricting invaders.

Turn off Broadcasting SSID: Turning off the broadcasting of SSID will make it difficult for a criminal to identify and attack networks.

Assign and Filter IP Addresses for Devices: Setting a static IP address for all devices connecting wirelessly allows the router to further filter the devices that are allowed to use the network.

Firmware upgradation: Firmware upgrades fixes bugs, near susceptibilities and offer new features and security updates for routers.

Update Operating System: Be it Windows, Linux or Mac, operating systems must be updated as it covers the security holes of the computer.

Use Firewalls: Enable firewalls on computers as they keep intruders from invading the computer systems even if they have access to your network.

Use updated antivirus: Use a reliable and updated antivirus program; and scan the hard drives regularly.

Reduce Signal Range: Place routers in the center of your home for a better coverage for home and less spillage of signals outside. Also, some routers allow you to reduce the signal strength so as to cover a limited area.

Turn off Routers: Turn off routers when you leave the home for extended periods.

Though following these steps will not guarantee 100% protection, but these will surely build a strong protective layer for your network.  For a hassle free network security support and matchless computer support services, help from premier organizations like PCCare247 could be sought that ensures service delivery round-the-clock. PCCare247 guarantees unparalleled Online Technical support services at reasonable price for users across the globe.