| Wireless security begins with the router. When you set up your wireless router, you'll find it most likely has a simple web interface. In that interface, one of the first things you'll need to do is change your network 'name' or SSID. Once you've done that, you'll need to establish a protected password to gain access, otherwise known as an encryption key. |
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| A wireless router can be easily configured to require a key, or passcode, from any computer connecting to it, which is an absolutely essential part of any WiFi security plan. A few of the common protocols are: |
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| • | Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is available in either 64-bit or 128-bit strength. 128-bit WEP keys are recommended. |
| • | WiFi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) is more secure than WEP. If possible, WPA2 should be used to secure your network. |
| • | Lightweight Extensible Authentication Protocol (LEAP) uses WEP, MAC address authentication and sophisticated key management systems. |
| • | Protected Extensible Authentication Protocol (PEAP) allows for secure transmission data, passwords and encryption keys without a certificate server. |
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| Another method for security your wireless network involves registering the computers using a particular wireless router to access the company's network. At first logon, the user is asked for network ID and password, and upon authentication that computer's unique identifier is registered with the router. |
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