Wireless Network Tutorial

Wireless network security is important to protect network infrastructure and business systems. A compromise in system integrity can result in the loss of valuable personal or organizational data. Trade secrets, passwords, financial details and personal details that fall into unauthorized hands can result in identity theft, personal and business loss that is both costly and time consuming to salvage and repair. With cyber crime reports on the rise, it is prudent to security enable a wireless network to isolate your connection from unauthorized trespass and use.

Wireless networking security is often overlooked by home wireless users who are anxious to setup and hit the ground running. Many users setup with low bandwidth accounts and despite only using them to a limited extent, suddenly discover that there account has been 'tapped out'. With the abundance of tools available today, drive by downloader's and bandwidth thieves make use of unsecured networks as if they were free wireless hotspots. As the paying account holder, you should take every precaution to protect your account from unauthorized use. The article on 'wireless network security software' provides further insight into the range of solutions that can be used in a home environment to secure your connection. This also applies to a business environment. Institutions have a wider range of considerations which necessitates careful evaluation, planning and monitoring software to secure wireless networks.

In a recent RSA Security study, 28% of wireless networks in New York and 21% in Paris still use the default settings provided by the manufacturers. With these settings frequently known to hackers, failing to change these settings can make you an easier target for wireless network security breaches. Hackers can use vulnerabilities to break into data repositories, distribute illegal material and deliver malicious code to other network systems. This can facilitate using your system as a launch pad for other illegal activities. Whether you're a home or business user, changing the default settings, using WPA/WEP encryption, installing router and terminal firewalls should be a priority to safeguard against these type of attacks. More information about security issues is available in other articles provided by this site.

As a conscientious user, you should avoid using unsecured wireless hotspots in public places. A failure by establishments to establish security for wireless networks can lead to rogue behavior by individuals who use packet sniffers to filter incoming and outgoing network data. This can lead to the same theft issues detailed above.

Taking precaution to institute security for a wireless network should be a priority for every individual and organization. It can take more time to do so but the peace of mind and protection is more than worth the effort.

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