Wireless connections have become an increasingly popular way of providing internet access. Many people prefer it for their home connections as well as in the workplace because of the high speed Internet connectivity and flexibility of usage without a LAN connection. Though wireless has made providing internet access quite easy, it also presents many potential dangers in the form of a number of security problems. Configuring the necessary security features can sometimes feel confusing, time-consuming and non-intuitive.

As computer networks are the most common method for business to send all manner of data, classified or otherwise, security becomes a highly important part of the wireless network structure. The security level should always be updated and maintained to ensure the proper protection of data integrity and confidentiality that one would expect from a wired network connection. There is the dangerous possibility of any wireless network adapter within the range of another network adapter to easily access the other network. According to some statistics, the amount of non secure wireless access points is steadily growing, with a large percentage of access points having little or no security enabled. An increase in availability of free tools over the internet has provided many with the tools needed to abuse unprotected wireless networks, thus posing a serious threat to businesses.

There are many reasons for this widespread lack of security. One source is ignorance or laziness on the part of network administrators. Particularly in small businesses and home connections, people are unaware of the seriousness of this issue and become complacent, not worrying so long as they are able to use the wireless connection to browse the internet or access files remotely. By overlooking wireless security, businesses are essentially inviting a seemingly limitless pool of opportunistic hackers to access data transmitted across the unprotected network. After all, an open network not only provides unmonitored access to the internet, but also leaves open access to saved files and confidential data.

Poor security can result from even the simplest mistakes. For example, many businesses forget to change the default administrator passwords that hardware is shipped with. These passwords are readily available online, so it’s hardly challenge to acquire them. Additionally, all wireless hardware comes with a standard system ID. Like default administrative passwords, this information is easily found online. Simply changing these passwords to something unique can go a long way to securing a wireless network. Another mistake often made by small businesses using wireless networks is neglecting to put a firewall in place. Many wireless routers have rudimentary firewalls built in. It is important to learn how the firewall works so that it can be configured properly. Of equal importance for security is enabling encryption. While there will always be methods to circumvent these measures, they will certainly keep all but the most determined hackers from causing trouble.

Security should be a priority for all businesses using a wireless network. Implementing such measures will prevent unauthorized access to vital financial information and other documents, thus keeping your business safe.

Author Bio: AVS Installations Robert Leggio has been an officer with several major audio visual companies since 1985. Having extensive audio equipment knowledge, Robert brings AVSI to an elite level with high standards.www.avsillc.com Co-Sponsored By: Mitsubishi, Tandberg, and AMX Corp.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: wireless network security, router, LAN, computer network,communications