Page 1 of Help me and my wireless network

I`ve recently obtained a new laptop and wireless internet connection, i`m wondering how i make it as secure as possible?

If my desktop PC is connected to my Wireless Router (But not wirelessly) is it at risk?

Also can i use a mouse with my laptop or do i have to use the built in pad?

Sorry to sound like a total idiot!

Hi

firstly, if your desktop pc is connected to the router by wire then no, it`s not as much
of a security risk.....just ensure that you have firewall and anti virus software running
on it.

with regards to your laptop, there are a few things you can implement to improve the
security of your wireless network:-

create a WEP or better still a WPA security key, this is either a 64 / 128 or 256Bit
code which you create on the router and then enter into the laptops wireless
configuration settings. aim for at least 128Bit if you`re worried about others leeching
your network. please note that not all equipment offers the stronger WPA encryption
technology, however WEP is plenty strong enough when coupled with the following:-

MAC (media access control) filtering. by entering the MAC address of your laptops
wireless network adaptor into the routers MAC list, you ensure that only the laptops
wireless adaptor can access the router and consequently your internet connection.
you don`t have to worry about entering the MAC address of the desktop pc as this has
a direct wired connection. if you wish to allow more wireless adaptors to access your
network you will have to physically enter their MAC`s too.

SSID identifier. this is the name of your wireless network. first thing to do is to change
it from its default (factory set) mode. brands like netgear tend to use the name "netgear"
as their SSID...change it to anything that you like.....

also with regards to the SSID, some routers give you the option of disabling it from
being broadcast. once you have set-up your network, you can disable the SSID
broadcast on the router and enter it manually into your laptops wireless config.
this will prevent any snoopers seeing your network name.


lastly, yes you can use a numeric pad or keyboard or mouse. you can buy USB
gadgets from most computer shops.

hth

Ste.

........is that gasoline i smell?

This item was edited on Saturday, 22nd October 2005, 08:10

Thanks for that, i`ll give it a bash