COMBATING TERROR
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Top 10 tips for home users to secure WiFi networks
Published on Thu, Sep 18, 2008 at 15:58, Updated on Thu, Sep 18, 2008 at 16:19 in Sci-Tech section
Tags: Wireless Internet, WiFi
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Five: Disable SSID Broadcast
The wireless 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 wireless clients may roam in and out of range. For the home user, this roaming feature is unnecessary as it increases the likelihood of an unauthorised gaining access to your home network. Fortunately, most wireless access points allow the SSID broadcast feature to be disabled by the network administrator. Your SSID name can be manually inputted into your devices.
Six: Do Not Auto-Connect to Open Wireless Networks
Connecting to an open wireless network such as a free wireless hotspot or your neighbour's router exposes your computer to security risks and attacks. Although not normally enabled, most computers are configured to allow automatic connections, without notifying the user. This setting should not be enabled except in temporary situations.
Seven: Assign Static IP Addresses to Devices
Most home wireless devices use dynamic IP addresses, which are randomly assigned by DHCP servers. Unfortunately, dynamic IP allocation also works to the advantage of network attackers, who can easily obtain valid IP addresses from your network's DHCP pool. Turn off DHCP on the router or access point, set a fixed IP address range instead and then configure each connected device to match. Using a private IP address range (like 10.0.0.x) prevents computers from being directly reached from the Internet.
Eight: Enable Firewalls On Each Computer and Router
Modern network routers contain built-in firewall capability, which can be easily disabled.
Ensure that your router's firewall is turned on. For added security, consider installing and running personal firewall software on each computer connected to the router.
Nine: Position the Router or Access Point Safely
Wireless signals normally have a wide radius, extending out of homes. A small amount of signal leakage outdoors is not a problem, but the further this signal reaches, the easier it is for others to detect and exploit. Wireless signals often reach through neighbouring houses and into the streets. When installing a wireless home network, the position of the access point or router determines its reach. Try to position these
devices near the centre of the home rather than windows to minimise leakage. Many routers allow you to reduce the range of your router’s signal from the administrative panel.
Ten: Turn Off Network During Extended Periods of Non-Use
Shutting down your network when not in use will most certainly prevent outside hackers from breaking in. While impractical to frequently switch off and on the devices, at least consider doing so during travel or extended periods of downtime.
The author, Yash Kadakia, is the Co-Founder and CTO of Security Brigade — an Indian IT Security Company that specialises in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment and web application security testing.
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