While there are many threats you face when you run a business that has a wireless network, there are several steps that you can take that will help reduce the chances of becoming a victim of a hacker.
The following 6 strategies may certainly seem like common sense, but many small business owners don’t ever consider that they are a prime target for a wireless network hacker attack, so they never employ them.
1. Shut your computer off
Take about common sense! But you’d be amazed at how many people leave their computers running 24-7. If you turn your computer off, there is less of a chance of an attack when you are not there to potentially see it taking place. This strategy also involves killing the power to your cable or DSL modem.
2. Limit sharing
Only allow the computers on your network to have shared access to a limited number of files or directories rather than the entire hard drive. Consider disabling file and print sharing altogether.
3. Add a personal firewall
Adding a hardware based firewall to your computer provides another level of protection a hacker will have to get through.
4. Configure WPA
Always be sure to use the enhanced version of wireless encryption. Wireless Protected Access, or WPA, will ensure that each of your devices (laptops / PDAs, etc.) is protected. But you must have all your devices configured this way. If not, the entire network defaults to the less secure WEP encryption.
5. Disable broadcast
You have the ability to turn off the broadcast SSID feature. This feature automatically searches for and logs you onto a wireless connection. Of course the downside is that you’ll have to enter the network and and credentials each time you access it.
6. Change SSID
When you purchase a wireless network setup, you’ll find that it has a preset SSID, which makes things very convenient for thieves as most never change this. Where the SSID identifies your network, be sure to create a new one as soon as you complete the network installation and follow these steps when choosing a password:
a. Be sure that you combine a number of letters and numbers for your password.
b. Be sure to use all characters allowed. If there is space for 25 characters, use them all.
c. Be unique. Your SSID should not be a password you use anywhere else.
d. Update your SSID at least once a quarter.
In order to change your SSID, refer to the manual that came with your router or access point.
