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Wireless networking is an increasingly popular means of connecting systems to a broadband connection. Many routers for small office or home applications now provide wireless connection - providing high speed links between machines and the internet at distances up to 100m from the base station.
It is essential that users remember that radio transmissions pass through walls and windows and can be detected outside of the building or office where the base station is situated - and take appropriate steps to ensure that the system is secure.
Many wireless systems, particularly in home use, are wide open to electronic eavesdropping using easily available tools intended for network managers. Unsecure systems could allow users outside of the building to connect to the network, surf the internet (using your connection!), read and send email, read and edit files on networked PCs and much more.
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Securing a Wireless network
Remember that the wireless network is downstream of the internet connection - once connected to a Wireless LAN, a user may be able to read and use files on any connected computer (even those connected to the network using cables - but with a wireless access point elsewhere on the network). Many network routers will automatically assign an internet (IP) address when a machine connects to the network - allowing external internet access.
Take steps to increase your Wireless security:
- Change the Wireless SSID from the manufacturers default setting to one of your own choice
- Set the system so that the SSID is not broadcast across the network
- Set up secure access - using WEP 128-bit encryption as a minimum. WEP (Wireless Equivalent Privacy) encrypts data (using a 128-bit key) between client and access station. If you can, step up to WPA-PSK (Pre Shared Key) using 256-bit encryption
- Set the wireless system to accept connections from defined MAC addresses only - this will restrict access to the wireless access cards that you specify
- Disable Windows file sharing on wireless connected systems
If the Wireless network forms part of a business critical network, or contains sensitive or confidential data, consult a network engineer for advice on securing and maintaining your network.
Remember!
An insecure network may be accessible to others - who may be able to surf the web or set up peer to peer file sharing using your bandwidth allowance. Make sure that your wireless based system is secured to prevent unauthorised access.
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Disclaimer: Information is provided in general terms only and is not intended to be taken as advice for specific situations. All information is provided in good faith and NewNet accepts no responsibility or liability for actions taken by customers reading these pages. NewNet is not responsible for the content or action of third party materials linked from these pages.
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