Internet Safety

Wireless network security

If you are using a wireless network (also known as Wi-Fi) to access the Internet, you should make sure it is secure; otherwise, all of your activity and information could be accessible to hackers and cybercriminals. Securing a wireless network can get technical, so beginners may prefer to get help from their Internet service providers (ISPs). When setting up your wireless security, consider the following tips:

 

• Limit your signal strength so it cannot be detected beyond the boundaries of your home.
• Disable SSID broadcasting so your network is not visible to other wireless users within its signal range.
• Use a strong password. You should choose a password or passphrase that's easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess.
• Enable MAC (Media Access Control) address filtering to prevent unauthorized wireless clients from breaking into your network.
• Make sure your network utilizes WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WPA2.
• If you use the older WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) instead of WPA, make sure to maximize the encryption.

Contact your ISP or visit Wireless-Safety.org for more information on securing your wireless network.