Using wireless networks

If you have a laptop, MP3 Player, Xbox, or another WiFi device, you know the importance of using wireless networks. Wireless networks are highly advanced from the old wires of the past. You no longer need to string wires to every device when you want to access the internet. Now, most devices come with WiFi technology so all you need to do is coordinate them with your network and you can use the device to connect to the internet anywhere within the signal range. Bluetooth is one technology that is a wireless device. They allow cell phones to broadcast to them within a short range.

A wireless network will run over traditional networks and use their security and encryption protection. However, they also include an additional step because they set up their own security and encryption features and they rely on virtual private networks (VPNs).

Some wireless networks have fixed antennas while others are mobile and they can move around wherever. This helps individuals that need to move and work at the same time. The antenna direction may spin all over, but it must be able to receive the signal the entire time.

Wireless networks tend to fall into 2 categories, Wide Area Network (WAN) and Local Area Network (LAN). WAN are often used for communication purposes like cell phones, and Bluetooth. LAN is used is a small vicinity. They are limited to a certain area like a home, hospital, work office, etc. LAN has a high-data transfer rate, causing many businesses to use them because they are faster.

WiFi technology provides users with a large variety of features like convenience, mobility, productivity, cheap cost, and ease in deployment. Since the newer products are equipped with WiFi technology all you need to do is purchase a wireless router and broadcast it. However, you do need to secure the network with a password so that you are the only one that can use your system. If it is left unprotected, anyone can log into your WiFi service and this is a prime opportunity for hackers to get your information and steal your identity.

If you don't want to purchase a WiFi router, you have the option to rent one from your internet service provider. Most of the internet service providers will give them away to anyone that chooses to use their Broadband services since 90% of users have a wireless device like a laptop or iPod.

It is easy to set-up a wireless network. Most of the LAN routers will come with all the instructions you need to get started and they will even walk you through the security features you need to install. If you are setting up a LAN network, follow these tips to get started to help you protect your computer from intruders:

• Secure the administration interface, normally this includes a password you need to enter in order to get started.


• Always set a password or your risk anyone logging into your network. Leaving the device open is risky because anyone can re-configure it and you may not be able to get into your own computer or to access the internet.


• Install antivirus software that includes malware protection. Many people lose their information because they inadvertently download malware without knowing it.


• Use WPA encryption instead of the WEP. WPA encryption is harder to break and it is harder to access the wireless network.


• Do not broadcast the SSID. This identifies your network and hackers can use this to find out who you are and gain access to your personal information. When you turn this off, your network literally becomes invisible to anyone in your signal range.