Wi-Fi networks have made it possible to access Internet from almost anywhere where there is Wi-Fi hotspot available. However the Wi-Fi networks can also lead to unauthorized access that can prove disastrous to you and your business. Since it is very easy to gain access into a network through a Wi-Fi hotspot, the hackers are increasingly using this vulnerability to steal data and identities. If you have installed a Wi-Fi network in your house or business, you must ensure its security to prevent any losses.
Most people think that the firewall install in their routers is enough to secure their Wi-Fi networks. However this is not true since the firewall will only prevent unauthorized access to your computer. It would still be possible to gain access to your Wi-Fi network and anyone with advanced computer knowledge can try to access your computer. So while you must have a firewall in your router as well as individual computers, you also need some extra protection to completely secure your Wi-Fi network.
First of all, you must change the default name of the network and the password of the router. This will ensure that the hackers are not able to break into your Wi-Fi network by using the default network name and password. Also, with the invention of high technology devices like super boost wifi, it is now easier for hackers to get into your account and get your details.
Encryption is one of the best ways to protect your Wi-Fi network and computers from unauthorized access. The encryption will ensure that the data transmitted between your computer and the router is scrambled and cannot be decoded by any hacker. Most Routers have encryption turned off and many people do not bother to turn it on while installing the router. However you must enable the router’s encryption as well use the strongest encryption protocol to protect your Wi-Fi network.
The wireless access protocols are continuously evolving to ensure the greatest possible security for the wireless networks. The Wireless Protected Access (WPA) and the recent WPA2 are the latest protocols that have replaced the earlier Wireless Encryption Protocol (WEP). The WPA and WPA2 protocols are difficult to crack since the keys used for encryption change dynamically making it nearly impossible to crack them. For added security of your Wi-Fi network, use a strong password consisting of alphanumeric symbols for the encryption key.
If that WPA is not supported on your router, make sure that you use 128 bit WEP keys. You can also consider changing your router or checking the manufacturer’s website to see if there is an upgrade available that supports WPA. You must also look for a router that supports the hybrid WPA and WPA2 mode. This mode allows you to use WPA2 encryption with the adapters that support it but still maintain connectivity with the adapters that just support WPA.
Maintaining the security of a Wi-Fi network is not an easy task, but it has to be done to prevent personal and business losses. Use the best possible routers and encryption technology to make your Wi-Fi network completely secure and impenetrable.
