Securing your wireless network

I'd like to ask a favor: Please keep your wireless network secure.

In an earlier post, I talked about the physical structure of a wireless network. When you have your wireless router connected to your modem, you will configure it per the manufacturers instructions. Many (too many) people leave it at that. You're not done yet; you still have to secure your network against unauthorized access. How you do this will vary a bit depending on what router you have, but you need to take the time to do this.

There are 3 encryption protocols:
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). This is an older protocol. It looks secure, but it can be broken by someone with the right software and the skills. It's better than nothing, but let me be clear: IT CAN BE BROKEN. You definitely should not use WEP for any sort of business applications.

Wi-fi Protected Access (WPA). Newer and more secure than WEP. It may still be possible to break into a WPA protected wireless network but it won't be as easy as breaking a WEP network.

WPA2 - newer and even more powerful than WPA. Some older computers may not be able to handle this level of encryption.

Legal stuff: This information is for general educational purposes only. Use at your own risk, and I can't be held responsible if something goes wrong. If you have questions consult a computer technician.