Internet Security Protocols in light of Wireless Networks

The simplest way to setup a network at home is to use a wireless router. Prior to the inception and popularity of wireless devices, Ethernet Switch Routers were used. Both wireless and Ethernet switch routers perform the same functions. However, wireless routers do not require any cabling and are fairly simple to setup. A regular wireless router will have three to four Ethernet ports within it. Therefore, if for some reason the wireless connection is not working, users have the option of connecting to the Internet via the Ethernet ports. 

However, wireless access can be exploited quite easily unless strict Internet Security protocols are introduced. A wireless network has a certain range within which devices can connect to it. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the network is as secure as possible. Any unauthorized personnel connected to a wireless network can gain access to other devices on the same network. 

Important tips for maintaining Internet Security

Changing Login Information

When a wireless network is established, it is set to default login credentials. Hackers are aware of this information and can exploit it. Therefore, the first thing that a user needs to do is to change the name of the network and the password. It is also a good idea to change the password regularly. 

Modifying SSID Broadcast Settings

If the SSID broadcasting option on the router is turned on, it will broadcast the network publicly allowing anybody to connect to it. Therefore, it is a good idea to disable it. 

Encrypting Wireless Key

There are three options that users can use: WEP, WAP and WP2. These are encryptions that a router utilizes to encrypt the password. Most routers are set to default to use the best encryption. However, when this setting is modified, it is important to change settings on all of the devices in the network as well. 

Installing a firewall

Every computer within the network should have its own firewall. A firewall will protect the device from external as well as internal threats. If an unauthorized person is able to connect to the network, the firewall will prevent him or her from gaining access to any other devices in the network. 

Limiting Connectivity

Routers are able to recognize devices via their MAC addresses. Every device has its own unique MAC address. If users want to limit connectivity to a wireless router, they can provide specific MAC addresses that will be allowed to connect. All of the other devices will be refused by the router. 

Final Tips

Most users forget to turn off the remote administration service option within the router. This is a bad idea because it can allow any person connected to the network to modify settings. Therefore, it should be disabled.

Wireless routers have made setting up a network an extremely easy task. However, Internet Security protocols like VPNs for Android need to be established in order to make sure that every device on the network is protected properly.