Is There A Way To Minimize The Risk Of A Wireless Network?

Telecom Business Review | Monday, February 07, 2022

Wireless networks introduce additional security risks. Here are a few precautions to protect your information.

Fremont, CA: In today’s connected world, almost everyone has at least one internet-connected device. With these devices on the rise, it is important to implement a security strategy to minimize their potential for exploitation.

1. Change default passwords.

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The majority of network devices, comprising wireless access points, are preseeded with default administrator passwords to simplify setup. Unfortunately, these default passwords are readily available online and provide only peripheral protection. Changing default passwords makes it more challenging for attackers to access a device. Use and periodic varied of complex passwords is your first line of defense in protecting your device.

2. Restrict access.

Only enable authorized users to access your network. Every hardware connected to a network has a MAC (media access control) address. You can constrain access to your network by screening these MAC addresses.

Consult your user documentation for precise information about allowing these features. You can also utilize the “guest” account, a widely used part on many wireless routers. This feature enables you to give wireless access to guests on a distinct wireless channel with a different password while holding the privacy of your primary credentials.

3. Encrypt the data on your network.

Encrypting your wireless data prevents anyone who might be capable of accessing your network from watching it. There are numerous encryption protocols accessible to give this protection. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), WPA2, and WPA3 inscribe information transmitted between wireless routers and devices. WPA3 is presently powerful encryption. WPA and WPA2 are still accessible, yet, it is desirable to use equipment that primarily supports WPA3, as utilizing the other protocols could expose your network to exploitation.

4. Protect your Service Set Identifier (SSID).

To avoid outsiders from simply accessing your network, avoid publicizing your SSID. For example, all Wi-Fi routers enable users to protect their device’s SSID, which makes it more difficult for attackers to find a network. At a minimum, change your SSID to something special. Leaving it as the manufacturer’s default could enable a potential attacker to distinguish the type of router and perhaps exploit any familiar vulnerabilities.

5. Install a firewall.

Consider installing a firewall on your wireless devices (a host-based firewall) and your home network (a router- or modem-based firewall). Attackers who can straightaway tap into your wireless network may be able to circumvent your network firewall—a host-based firewall will include a layer of security to the data on your computer.

6. Maintain antivirus software. Induct antivirus software and keep your virus descriptions up to date. Many antivirus programs also have features that detect or protect against spyware and adware.

7. Use file sharing with care. File sharing between devices should be infirm when not needed. It would help if you always chose to only allow file sharing over the home or work networks, never on public networks. You may consider creating a dedicated directory for file sharing and restrict access to all other guides. Also, you should password protect anything you share. Finally, never open an entire hard drive for file sharing.

8. Keep your access point software patched and up to date.

Your wireless access point manufacturer will periodically release updates to and patches for a device’s software and firmware. In addition, check the manufacturer’s website regularly for updates or repairs for your device.

9. Check your internet provider’s or router manufacturer’s wireless security options.

Internet service providers and manufacturers may give information or resources to help secure a wireless network. Test the customer support area of their websites for particular suggestions or instructions.

10. Connect using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Many companies and organizations hold a VPN. VPNs enable employees to connect safely to their network when away from the office. VPNs encrypt connections at the sending and receiving ends and keep out traffic that is not adequately encrypted. If a VPN is available, log onto it whenever you need to use a public wireless access point.

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