Improving wireless network security

Setting up a wireless network is an easy process, which does not take a ‘tech savvy’ genius to accomplish. The process is made easier since most wireless Local Area Network (LAN) connections take advantage of a protocol known as DHCP or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. This protocol automatically assigns an IP address, eliminating the need for a network administrator to carry out the task. It is easy to become lost in the rush to have the system up and running in record time and in the process throw caution to the wind and forget to take security precautions to protect your shiny new wireless network. This article will highlight some of the things you can do to improve the security of your wireless network.

Do not use default administrator passwords and usernames. You should change any default login information provided by the manufacturer of any hardware you have on your wireless network. This should be accomplished the moment you incorporate the hardware. If you don’t, the default login information is available to hackers and you leave your wireless network prone to hacking.

Use the WPA/WEP encryption feature. There are several encryption technologies available for you to choose from. Make sure to choose a large byte encryption, which is harder to crack.

Do not use the default SSID. Since all manufacturers of hardware ship their products with the same SSID set. Failure to change the default SSID, when configuring a wireless network, can be taken by hackers as a sign of a weak and vulnerable network.

Keep the MAC address filter enabled. Each piece of hardware in a wireless connection possesses a unique identifier, known as the physical address or MAC address. Keying in the MACS addresses of this equipment restricts the network to only allow connections from hardware that can only be identified by access point routers.