FAQ: Wireless Network Security for Businesses

Wireless Network Security for Businesses
Jun
15
Posted in: Blog | June 15, 2015 | 0 comments
These days it’s important to stay on top of your enterprise wireless network security to protect your business from potential attack. For example, a wireless router is not protected when you first purchase it. You must take steps to secure it as soon as it’s connected because if an outsider is connected to your network, he or she may be able to access your computers, files and passwords. Taking wireless network security for business seriously is critical to protecting your information. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you secure your network against attackers.

Should I change my router’s default password?

Absolutely. Every router comes with a preconfigured password and attackers know this. It is very easy for them to search the Internet and obtain your vendor’s typical password.

Should I turn on encryption?

Always turn on encryption and the firewall. These two things will go a long way in securing your network.

Should I rename my network or is the default name OK?

You should definitely change the name of your network, or your service set identifier (SSID), and make it something unique and unusual. You should also turn off SSID broadcasting so that the name isn’t even visible to outsiders.

How can I make sure my password is really strong?

The more complex your password, the better. These days it is pretty easy for someone to use software to hack your password. We recommend you make it at least 25 characters and include some special characters, letters (some in caps) and numbers.

How often should I change my wireless password?

It’s important to periodically change your wireless password. We recommend changing it a minimum of once a quarter. If you can do it more often, say monthly, that is even better.

What are WEP and WPA and which option should I choose?

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a security protocol that provides a wireless network a similar level of privacy as a wired LAN would. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is an alternative and newer security protocol for computers with Wi-Fi connection capabilities. Always choose WPA, as WEP can be cracked in just a few minutes and WPA was designed as an improvement to WEP.

Do you have additional questions about wireless network security for your business? Contact us for answers and to learn more about wireless infrastructure solutions.

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