WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GOING WIRELESS
Wireless networks are to a lot of people still a mystery, but the truth is that our lives are becoming more and more wireless. So here are a couple things you need to know!
Understand how it works
Going wireless with your network simply means that you connect an Internet cable or DSL modem to a wireless router. This wireless router sends a signal through the air and any device within the range can pull the signal from the air and access the Internet. Sometimes this range extends as far as several hundred feet. This means you need to take precautions since anyone can use your network. You don't want your neighbors or any hackers using your network of even worse, access information on your device.
Use encryption
That is why you should use encryption on your network. The basic explanation of what encryption does is it scrambles the information you send into a code, so that it's not accessible to others. Encryption is by far the most effective way to secure your network. There are a couple different types of encryption: Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP). All your equipment, including computer and router, need to have the same encryption. We advice to use WPA2, since this is the strongest and should protect you against hackers.
You should know that most routers come with the encryption turned off and you will have to turn it on manually. There should be directions in the manual, but you are also able to find the information necessary on the company's website.
Limit Access
Another good way to protect your network is to limit access. You should only allow specific devices to access your wireless network. Every device the is able to communicate has an assigned and unique Media Access Control (MAC) address. This is a good addition, but you shouldn't just rely on this method as hackers can manipulate and mimic MAC addresses.
Secure your router
The router direct traffic between your local network and the Internet. So this is the first line of defense against fighting off any hackers. Again, besides people using your network for free, they can also access personal and financial information that is located on your devices or take control of your router and direct you to fraudulent websites. Here are a couple great things you can do to be proactive about protecting your network and information:
Change the router name from default.
Make it unique to something only you know.
Change your router's pre-set password.
The manufacturer of your router assigns default passwords to allow you to set everything up in a breeze. Hackers often know these default passwords, so once set up, change the password immediately and keep it somewhere safe.
Turn off any "remote management features".
Many routers come with the "remote management" feature to allow your manufacturer to provide technical support. You should never leave this enabled, as hackers can use these gateways as well.
Log out as Administrator once everything is set up.
Keep everything up-to-date.
The software that comes with your router needs occasional updating. You can visit the manufacturers website periodically to see if there is a software update available to download.
These are small and easy steps you can take to really secure your network and your personal/financial information. But besides this, also make sure you take basic security practices for your computer/smart devices too. Basic protections are antivirus, antispyware and a firewall. Like your router, make sure these stay up to date as well.
As we are going more wireless by the day, it is not only important to go along with the trend, but also know what exactly is going on. Make sure you understand what wireless means and what security features must come with that! Force AV has countless of experts who are more than willing and able to help you understand all of this. Request a free consultation and we will send a technician to your home who will design a specific and unique plan for you home. Besides designing we also install everything and will teach you exactly how to work everything so you can really start enjoying the smart-life!
