e-Vents

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SOHOs - Securing Your Wireless Network

There are numerous articles in tech journals and computer publications regarding network security. Most of them address corporate networks. But what about the networks now gaining share in the home office environment?

Most people having multiple computers will probably utilize Internet connection sharing, so that every PC has access to the Internet. Others will additionally want to share files between PCs. When convenient, many will choose to hardwire their PCs through network cards (NICs), and with routers and broadband modems. Microsoft provides good information on setting up these small networks as part of their XP operating system (see the networking guide).

Add to the mix a portable PC, and the desire to add a wireless network card, and things get a little more complicated.

It is relatively easy to set up a wireless network when a wired one is already installed. Adding a wireless router is easy, since most have ports for connecting wired cables, in addition to their wireless capability. Once the base unit if properly positioned, taking into consideration the operating range of the transmitter and the most likely roaming area for the receiver, test the units individually to be certain that they are communicating with each other.

Network security should be the next step...check your wireless router's installation manual. Most have a link to program the router, making wireless access available only to those units designated by the administrator. Initiallly, changing the default user names and passwords will keep the casual hacker from gaining access to your broadband connection. Beyond that, protecting your system with the addition of a firewall, and selectively sharing files containing sensitive information should also be a priority.

If you are not already familiar with it, read through the router manual. You will notice acronyms such as WEP, MAC, WLAN, SSID, and others. These deal with encryption, identification, IP addresses, and other networking terms. For the casual user, knowing where to look for the information is important should you ever have to reset the system.

MM [20:41]