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Old 16th August 2006 | 10:35
  #14 (permalink)  
GroundBound
 
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 265
Likes: 0
From: Belgium
Security

Aerbabe,

once you are connected, please, please, please, ensure you secure your WIFI. Very few people do - mostly because they don't know thay have to as it is not well explained, or it looks too difficult. Even the instruction booklet which came with my router failed to emphasize the NEED for securing the system - only gave (limited) instructions on how to do it.

Without securing your system, when using WIFI you are giving access to EVERYONE who is within tx/rx range. They can access your machine and do anything they wish to it, or with it. Even at the simplest level it means they may consume your ADSL bandwidth. Do not be seduced by the firewall on the router - that has nothing to do with WIFI - it protects your network from the Internet, yes, but the WIFI is on your network side.

I am amazed at the number of WIFI stations I can pick up and almost all are unsecured. I could do great damage - if so inclined!

There's good information on the security hazard and how to secure your WIFI system. Check around the Intenet - "practically networked" is a good source. http://www.practicallynetworked.com/..._wireless2.htm

Once secured WIFI is great. Don't be put off - just take the correct precautions.

GB

(Edited to add link)
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