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Securing Wireless Networks

By IncludeHelp Last updated : August 7, 2024

Identifying Threats to Your Wireless Network

1. Piggybacking

• Unauthorized users can connect to your network if it is not secured.
• These users may conduct illegal activities using your internet connection.
• They can also monitor your web traffic and steal personal files.

2. Wardriving

• Individuals drive around neighbourhoods to find and exploit unsecured networks.
• Once connected, they can misuse your network for malicious purposes.
• This practice can lead to unauthorized access to your data and internet resources.

3. Evil Twin Attacks

• Attackers set up a fake access point that looks real.
• Users connect to this stronger signal, unknowingly sending data through the attacker’s system.
• Sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and passwords, can be intercepted.

4. Wireless Sniffing

• Public access points that are not secured transmit data without encryption.
• Attackers can easily intercept and read this unencrypted data.
• Sensitive information, like passwords and credit card numbers, is at risk.

5. Unauthorized Computer Access

• If your network is not secured, malicious users can access shared files.
• They can view, modify, or delete your personal and sensitive files.
• This unauthorized access can lead to data theft and loss of privacy.

6. Shoulder Surfing

• In public places, attackers can watch you enter sensitive information.
• They can steal passwords, PINs, and other personal data by simply looking over your shoulder.
• Using screen protectors and being aware of your surroundings can mitigate this risk.

7. Theft of Mobile Devices

• Physical theft of your device gives attackers direct access to your data.
• They can access any connected cloud accounts and stored information.
• Encrypting your device’s data and requiring login credentials can help protect against this threat.

Tips for Protecting Your Wireless Network

1. Change Default Passwords

Network devices come with default passwords that are easy to find online. Change these passwords to something unique and complex.

2. Restrict Access

Use MAC address filtering to allow only authorized devices on your network. Utilize the "guest" network feature to separate guest access from your main network.

3. Encrypt Your Data

Use the latest encryption protocols such as WPA3 to protect your data. WPA3 provides stronger security compared to its predecessors WPA and WPA2.

4. Protect Your SSID

Avoid broadcasting your SSID or change it from the default name. This makes it harder for attackers to identify and exploit your network.

5. Install a Firewall

Use both a network firewall and a host-based firewall for added security. This ensures that even if attackers bypass the network firewall, your devices are still protected.

6. Maintain Antivirus Software

Keep your antivirus software up-to-date to protect against malware, spyware, and other malicious programs.

7. Use File Sharing with Caution

Disable file sharing when not needed and only enable it on trusted networks. Use password protection for shared files.

8. Keep Your Access Point Software Updated

Regularly check for and install updates and patches from the manufacturer of your wireless access point.

Securing Wireless Networks: Detailed Steps

Step 1: Changing Default Passwords

Example: Imagine you have a new wireless router from Brand X with the default admin password set to "admin." Change it to something complex like "XyZ@2024$Secure".

Step 2: Enabling Encryption

Example: Access your router's settings and switch the encryption protocol to WPA3. If your devices don't support WPA3, use WPA2 as a secondary option.

Step 3: Protecting Your SSID

Example: Change your network's SSID from "BrandX_Router" to something unique like "MySecureHome2024". Disable SSID broadcasting if possible.

Step 4: Installing a Firewall

Example: Enable the firewall feature in your router's settings and install reputable firewall software on your computer, like ZoneAlarm or Norton.

Step 5: Keeping Antivirus Software Updated

Example: Use antivirus software like McAfee or Avast and set it to automatically update its virus definitions and perform regular scans.

Step 6: Disabling File Sharing on Public Networks

Example: When connecting to public Wi-Fi, go to your device's network settings and disable file sharing options.