How to Secure a Wireless Connection
Level of difficulty: Easy
Wireless network is the term used for any wireless computer network. Since it is wireless, hacking and intrusion may be easily performed; thus, protecting a network is important from unauthorized access and use. A wireless network or Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) network is even more susceptible to intrusion and piggybacking. Unauthorized access has numerous consequences for a network. The use of allocated Internet bandwidth can be harmful to a network, making work slow and Internet access sluggish. Intrusion can also compromise a wireless network’s information and data security. Access to restricted files may be available to intruders. Malware and virus infection may also affect a network due to intrusion. There are simple steps to prevent accidental and intended unauthorized access to a wireless network.
Materials Needed:- Computer
- Wireless Router
- Internet Connection
Step 1
Enable the encryption capability on a wireless network’s access point. A 128-bit encryption or higher will make a wireless network safer from intrusion. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Area (WPA) are two different encryption schemes that may be utilized to encrypt a network access point. WEP is easier to access by intruders using free utilities downloaded from the Internet. It is recommended that a wireless network uses WPA or WPA 2.
Step 2
Use WPA or WPA 2 to set the wireless router password. Select a random-lettered and maximum length password to protect the router configuration settings. Access to a router setting can compromise network security and can lead to network piracy. Some routers have a hardware reset button that will restore the router to factory settings in the event that the password is forgotten or compromised.
Step 3
Pick random-lettered and maximum length passwords that are not easily guessed. The password may be a combination of both letters, numbers, and may contain both upper and lowercase letters. Do not give way the WPA 2 and router access passwords.
Step 4
Always change a wireless network name or Service Set Identifier (SSID) from default to something unique. The default SSID depends on the brand of the wireless router. A default SSID can be easily guessed through Internet research and should be automatically replaced.
Step 5
Filter a network’s Media Control Access (MAC) Address. Register all networked devices on the wireless network on your router. The router will only allow devices with approved MAC addresses to access and use the wireless network.
Step 6
Always disable wireless administration and prevent any wireless hacking into the router.