Tips For Protecting your Home Wireless Network

Home wireless networks are exploding in popularity. From my apartment I can see 14 different networks. But what really got be thinking about security was that 6 of the were totally unsecured. Anyone could log on and surf to their hearts content. Criminals will often use theses unsecured networks to hide their tracks. So, is your network secure? Here are some tips to secure your home wireless network.

Tips to help protect your wireless network

The following are some basic tips to help protect your wireless system from intruders. If you aren't sure how to do some of these, ask someone with computer experience that you trust to help (the person that first set up the wireless network is a good choice), visit Microsoft Support, or drop by our friendly Security Community.

Encrypt all information transmitted through your access point.

Specify the computers your access point will only recognise using Media Access Control (MAC) addresses.

Add a firewall to your network access point and to each computer on the network and keep all of them current (note that the latest version of Windows XP features a built-in firewall).

Avoid storing passwords, social security numbers, credit card numbers, details about family members, or other personal information on your computer.

Place the wireless access point away from windows and near the center of your house to decrease the signal strength outside of the intended coverage area.

Keep Windows and related security tools current using Automatic Updates.

Install antivirus software and Microsoft Windows AntiSpyware (Beta) and keep them up-to-date.

Revisit established and trusted computer security organizations and sites to stay current with the latest security technologies, methods, alerts, and related information.

If you are unable to use encryption, connect to your wireless access point with a network cable when sending financial or other critical information over the Internet.

Although no method is 100% secure, you can help deter or prevent unauthorized access by applying these basic steps to deter others looking to steal personal information, Internet access, or even send out spam e-mail in your name.

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