Wireless Security Software Features And ConsiderationsWireless computers and networks are often very insecure. Properly securing a wireless connection can be difficult and require quite a bit of experience. A security risk for wireless connections can sometimes be accidental. A computer looking for a wireless connection can sometimes stumble upon a company's internal network. This is a security risk for the network and an inconvenience for a user looking for a connection. There are some basic techniques that can be implemented to help secure your wireless connection, however. Antivirus software is part of wireless security software because it is a necessary part of all security software for computers. Worms, viruses, Trojans and many inexperienced hackers will be detected and eliminated simply by using antivirus software. Wireless security, however, requires much more than antivirus software. Another basic component of wireless security software (and all security software) is a firewall. A firewall controls traffic to and from your computer based on the configuration set by the administrator. A firewall limits access that programs have to communicate with your computer. Encryption should always be turned on when you are using a wireless connection. Wireless security software is available to enhance your computer's encryption abilities for further protection. Encryption prevents wireless snoopers from eavesdropping on your Internet traffic. Wireless security software should include some kind of monitoring software for your computer. Monitory software can monitor the internal workings of your computer. This will allow you to see if another user is using your wireless connection to connect with your computer or to the Internet in general. Regularly changing your passwords is an important security measure. It is very important to change the default password for your wireless connection. Wireless security software is available to help you generate passwords that are difficult to break, as well as, recover passwords you may have lost or forgotten. In regards to changing default settings of your wireless network, you should also change the default network name. Many manufacturers use a set group of default passwords and names for networks. This allows crackers to easily determine password and network defaults by narrowing down which brand of computer you are using. Changing passwords and network names to values that are not related to a manufacturer or owner is a critical part of securing your wireless network. Computers have the ability to share file and printers, which can be very convenient for a network. However, this poses a risk when used with a wireless network. To keep your wireless connection secure, turn off file and printer sharing unless it is absolutely necessary. File and data encryption can stop many hackers from using a shared file or printer, but more experienced hackers can get around simple encryption methods. Wireless security software can help secure your wireless connection, but technology has yet to be created that provides a secure wireless connection. Wireless connections have many weaknesses and vulnerabilities to be wary of. If you use a wireless connection, take these basic steps to protect yourself and your computer. |