Wireless security is the protection against unauthorized access to computers or data over wireless networks, including wifi networks. Wifi protection includes wired equivalent privacy (WEP) and wifi-protected access. WEP typically has unreliable security standards, and the password it employs can often be broken in a matter of minutes using a simple computer and readily available software. On the other hand, WPA(protected wifi access) provides a fast way to boost protection, unlike.
WPA2 is the new standard, but certain hardware will not accept it without a software update or replacement. Wpa2 employs an encryption system that encrypts the network with a 256-bit key, which is more secure than WEP. To authenticate the linking computer, enterprises often use a certificate-based scheme, which follows the standard 802.11x.
Many businesses already consider using WPA2 due to the high risk of wireless security threats. Unfortunately, many small and medium-sized companies lack the capital and cyber expertise needed to protect their networks properly. This can be a major issue since an unsecured network exposes the organization to hacker attacks aimed at stealing sensitive company data or customer details. To have the best wireless security, you can use several aspects of your router’s built-in options. Meanwhile, you can keep an eye on your router with video surveillance systems, and if your router is mounted outdoor, a solar-powered security camera can be the best choice.
Let’s discuss how you can protect your business by following few steps:
1. Modify your wireless products’ default router login information and IP address.
If you choose to use a wireless device’s default IP subnet and IP address, you make it easier for hackers. Whenever necessary, change the IP subnetwork. Ensure that your wireless access points and routers’ default IP addresses are modified. Although a professional hacker can find this information, it is easier to entice inexperienced hackers by providing a convenient starting point.
The default username and password that most wireless devices come with are used to attach and update your device.
You must ensure that both the username and password have been modified.
2. Consider using WPA2.
When it comes to passwords, your router normally has a few choices, and you should make sure you’re using wifi protected access or WPA.
Check your network settings to make sure you’re using the most secure encryption protocol currently offered. Check for a firmware patch or consider upgrading to an updated router if your router is outdated or presently WPA-incompatible.
3. Consider setting up both private access and public access.
Putting staff and the general public on the same network is a bad combination. Consider creating two different points of entry to your network using a service set identifier (SSID). Make a business-grade protected access point for your staff and a public one for clients.
This shields your company’s computers from visitors, adding a layer of protection.
4. If feasible, turn off DHCP.
DHCP (dynamic host configuration protocol) may or may not be necessary for your wireless devices. Your network administrator will manually allocate IP addresses if only a few users and visitor access are not needed. It will be more difficult to connect to the WLAN as a result of this. Dhcp holds information that can let a hacker build an impression of your network.
It is a fact that manually addressing hosts can be a maintenance challenge in many situations, but you can switch off DHCP whenever possible.
This setting can be used particularly for the private access networks where you only assign the connection to your team or staff to secure your company’s valuable information.
5. Place your router in a secure area.
Many of the advanced security measures can be circumvented by simply pressing the reset button on your router. It’s important to double-check that your router is kept in a safe location with limited access, such as a locked closet or a secure room.
6. Having efficient firewall protection
Many routers come with a firewall that can shield your internal network from certain attacks, but it isn’t necessarily turned on by default. It’s usually referred to as SPI (stateful packet inspection) or nat (network address translation) (network address translation). It should be switched on in your settings menu of the router.
It’s also crucial to ensure that your computer doesn’t transfer data over the network or the internet without seeking permission.
