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The convenience of Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) networks brings with it a new security threat. Anyone within broadcast range of your wireless network signal — neighbors, passers-by — can access your network. After they have access to the network, they can steal your Internet bandwidth, view your sensitive computer files, and even damage your software and operating system.
No matter where your network is located, you should take some basic precautions to keep it secure:
1. Decide whether or not you want others to be able to easily use your Wi-Fi network periodically.
 | If you want to create a hotspot that friends or associates can use, you will want to use minimal security so that others can easily access it. |
2. Walk around your building, property, and general area with your handheld PC or laptop to measure the range of your Wi-Fi signal in different areas (see Figure 1).
Figure 1: A weak signal.
3. Evaluate the proximity of potential threats.
4. Find out what your equipment supports. This router supports several encryption technologies including:
• WEP (Wireless Encryption Protocol): WEP is supported by virtually all Wi-Fi devices. Unfortunately WEP is easily defeated by widely available hacking programs.
• WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access): WPA is vastly superior to WEP, but it requires a special RADIUS server, which most home networks don't have.
• WPA-PSK (WPA Pre-Shared Key): This option is a form of WPA that does not require a RADIUS server and is the best choice for home networks. WPA-PSK is also called WPA Personal. Some older devices don't support WPA or WPA-PSK.
5. Routinely check for Wi-Fi intrusions.
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