Top 8 Tips for Wireless Home Network Security

1) Change Default Administrator Passwords (and Usernames)

Changing the default password is important because everyone that purchases the same Wireless access device, knows your password.

2) Turn on (Compatible) WPA / WEP Encryption
By default, your Wireless device comes without the encryption enables. WPA / WEP are security programs that forced your computer to provide an encrypted password before you are allowed access to the wireless access point.

3) Change the Default SSID
SSID is the network name of your wireless network; most people leave the default name, such as, Linksys or NetGear. By changing the name, intruders have a more difficult time identifying your system and use known vulnerabilities. (And of course, use the unchanged default password.) One mistake people make is naming their home network their family name and or address. When cruising a neighborhood of wireless devices, its always scary to see Smithfamily201Elm.

4) Disable SSID Broadcast
In Wi-Fi networking, the access point or router typically broadcasts the network name (SSID) over the air at regular intervals. This feature was designed for businesses and mobile hotspots where Wi-Fi clients may come and go. In the home, this feature is unnecessary, and it increases the likelihood an unwelcome neighbor or hacker will try to log in to your home network.

5) Assign Static IP Addresses to Devices
Most home networkers gravitate toward using dynamic IP addresses. This means that the IP Address, (the IP Address is needed to participate on a network.) is typically assigned automatically. A dynamic IP address on an unsecure system can also supply a hacker with a IP Address.

6) Enable MAC Address Filtering
Each piece of Wi-Fi gear possesses a unique identifier called the "physical address" or "MAC address." Access points and routers keep track of the MAC addresses of all devices that connect to them. Many such products offer the owner an option to key in the MAC addresses of their home equipment that restricts the network to only allow connections from those devices. Do this, but also know that the feature is not so powerful as it may seem. Hacker software programs can fake MAC addresses easily.

7) Turn Off the Network During Extended Periods of Non-Use
The ultimate in security measures for any wireless network is to shut down, or turn office your wireless access point when you are not using. You are the most vulnerable at work or asleep, and mischief minded people know it.

8) Position the Router or Access Point Safely
Wi-Fi signals normally reach to the exterior of a home. A small amount of "leakage" outdoors is not a problem, but the further this signal reaches, the easier it is for others to detect and exploit. Wi-Fi signals often reach across streets and through neighboring homes. When installing a wireless home network, the position of the access point or router determines it's reach. Try to position these devices near the center of the home rather than near windows to minimize this leakage.