Many articles have been written on ways of protecting your wireless networks from hackers and other Internet based attacks. Most of these methods are too complicated and need a networking guru to implement. This article will provide you with three easy measures you can apply to protect your home wireless network from unauthorised login and attacks from hackers.
Run firewall software for each computer and router in your wireless network
Ensure that the firewall capability on your routers is always enabled and turned on. For extra protection and to provide backup to the manufacturer’s firewall, you should also run personal firewall software on each PC connected to the hub router.
Find a strategic point to place the hub to prevent signal overflow
You should try to prevent the signal from your home wireless network leaking outdoors. A strong signal can easily be picked and accessed by hackers located outside your home. When configuring a home network the hub should be placed away from windows and should gravitate towards the centre of the house. This will reduce the amount of signal leaking outside, as walls and other obstacles quickly diminish the signal’s strength.
Don’t leave the wireless signal on when the system is not being used
What better way to deter hackers and other attackers from accessing your network than by switching it off? This is the ultimate security measure. It is good practice to switch off your wireless network during prolonged periods of inactivity. Since it will not be sending out any signals, it will be immune to attacks.
We always turn our broadband router off when we aren’t using it, as it saves on power and stops other people trying to hack it.
Anne Shaw 27th January 2009 @ 11:09