Secure your small office or home wireless network

Wireless networks represent one of the greatest advances in networking in recent years, particularly for small office or home users who want to share their Internet connection without having to run network cabling through the floors and walls. Unfortunately, if not properly secured, wireless networks also represent an enormous security risk. In this sample chapter from Essential Computer Security: Everyone's Guide to Email, Internet, and Wireless Security, examine wireless network security from two perspectives. First, take an overview of wireless protocols and technology. Then learn some fundamental steps you can take to secure your small office or home wireless network, such as changing default passwords and SSIDs, disabling the broadcasting of your SSID, or even filtering access to your wireless network by MAC address. Finally, examine the security concerns unique to public wireless hotspots, and learn some security precautions you can when using a public wireless network.

Title: Essential Computer Security: Everyone's Guide to Email, Internet, and Wireless Security
ISBN: 1597491144
Published: October 2006
Author: Tony Bradley
Chapter: Chapter 8: Wireless Network Security
Published by Syngress Publishing