5 Easy Wireless Security Hints

Thankfully, broadband (high speed) Internet is spreading further and further. I don’t walk into many homes anymore than don’t have high speed access, and I can’t remember the last time I helped a business customer who had dial-up access. With high speed Internet access, many computer users install a wireless router to the modem to allow multiple computer access to the Internet. Wireless routers are easier to setup than ever before and can be purchased for well under $50. However, with extra technology, comes extra problems.

With wireless, the extra problems can mean potentially slow, spotty, and unsecured Internet access. Follow these five steps to make your wireless Internet stronger, more secure and less problematic:

1. Change the default password of your DSL modem and/or router. Read your particular device’s manual to find out how.
2. Change the default wireless network name. Actiontec DSL modems default to either Actiontec or 2wire and routers default to naming the wireless network after the manufacturer (Linksys, Belkin, etc). Change it to your street, neighborhood, or county name. Don’t name it after your last name.
3. Consider not broadcasting the signal as well. Not broadcasting means that you will have to setup the connection manually on your computer, but it makes the signal virtually invisible to everyone else.
4. Change the wireless broadcast channel. Often times, the channel is set to 6 or 9. If you live in a typical housing development or apartment complex, that could mean up six or more neighbors jockeying for the same channel. Jump onto a different channel so your router doesn’t compete with your neighbor’s. 
5. Lastly, make sure to use a wireless password. WEP is the weakest protection, and WPA is the strongest. It is a pain to have to enter this information in and remember it, but it will secure your network and prevent cheap neighbors from riding your wireless for free.

Every router and modem are different and change constantly, so use these guidelines to setup your situation securely per your individual equipment’s instructions. If you have lost the instructions or the disk that came with your modem or router, visit the manufacturer’s web site to download a new copy. For more information on home networking and wireless, visit our complete guide to home networking here.