Wireless networks precautions

                

              We humans love free Wi-Fi. Airports, cafes and hotels often have it. Wi-Fi is so much more convenient than having a wired connection, which is such a thing of the past. But how safe are wireless networks to use? We will discuss this first by defining how a wireless network operates. Going wireless generally requires connecting an internet "access point" – like a cable or DSL modem – to a wireless router, which sends a signal through the air. Any computer within range of this signal can access the Internet, or worse...the information on that computer.

              This is why certain precautions must be taken to protect your wireless network from criminals, hackers or spammers. First, you should make sure the Wi-Fi you are using is a secure network, whether it is public or your own personal one. If the public one is not secure, refrain from sending personal information when connected to it. For your personal Wi-Fi, use WPA or WEP encryption. Then, you should secure your router and computer. Make sure you change your router’s pre-set SSID and password because those are easy for hackers to figure out. Protect your computer through turning on the firewall and installing anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Always run updates on these applications to verify they are still protecting your router/computer.

https://www.onguardonline.gov/articles/0013-securing-your-wireless-network https://security.intuit.com/protect-your-computer.html