Wireless network security is important. More so today, many companies are using wireless technology to connect their computers to the internet. Wireless networking offers several advantages over traditional Ethernet cables, including flexibility and mobility.
However, because wireless networks operate without physical security controls such as firewalls and physical walls, they can be compromised by unauthorized users outside the network or by other users inside the network. The potential for compromise means that your business is vulnerable to attack by malicious hackers and unwanted intruders.
What is the Purpose of Wireless Network Security?
The purpose of wireless network security is to detect and stop unauthorized access to your network. To achieve this goal, you will need to consider the following:
Passwords and encryption:
Each computer on a wireless network must have a unique password so that only authorized people can connect to the network. Encryption is used to protect all data sent between your wireless devices and the wireless access point.
The wireless access point:
A wireless access point acts as a central hub for your entire wireless network, connecting all of your devices. If you have multiple computers connected in one location, you may want to consider installing a stand-alone wireless access point for each location rather than connecting them all with one large access point in one central location.
Alternatively, if you have an existing wired network at the business location, you may want to install a wireless bridge or router that connects it directly to the existing wired network.
Wireless repeater:
A repeater is useful when you want to extend the range of your wireless access point. For instance, by repeating its signal throughout a larger area using additional antennae.
Antenna (or antennae):
Antennae are useful on both wireless access points and repeaters to send and receive signals from outside sources (such as other computers). You may want to consider installing more than one antennae if you plan on distributing data throughout a large area or building.
Maintain Your Wireless Network Security
Once your network has been set up and secured, there are several other steps that you can take to ensure its continued effectiveness. These steps will help you to avoid problems before they occur and keep your business running smoothly.
Change the Passwords Regularly:
If a hacker can access your network through a weak password, he or she may be able to access your files without in detection for days or even weeks. This gives them more time to perform malicious acts against your business and steal valuable information which could result in a major loss of revenue, especially if the hacker sells the information to another business that may be a competitor.
Be sure to change passwords regularly, preferably every month or so (but never less than every three months). This will help to ensure that your data remains safe and secure at all times and will also deter hackers from attempting to log onto your system because they don’t know how often you change your passwords.
