The Network Security. Org

I installed my Home Wireless Network and my neighbor was using it

There are many reasons why you may want to install a wireless network at your home or office. Some people just like the freedom that wireless networking provides. If you use a laptop, being able to move from the office, to the family room, to the deck is a unshackling experience. Others turn to wireless networking to overcome obstacles like structural challenges. In many older homes and offices the walls are not so easy to run network cables in. Even if you are able to run network cables in your home or small office there is the cost of doing so. Usually many times more expensive than installing a wireless network. Then there are those, like many of us (like me), who absolutely must have the latest and greatest gadgets on the market.

Most home wireless network devices work the same way and provide similar functionality. Because of the shear size of the home computer user market the manufacturers of these devices understand that their products must be easy to install. Otherwise many people would never purchase them. The result, easy to install home wireless systems that work as advertised (for the most part) but can leave you and your computers at risk! It's not that these devices can't be setup securely or secure enough to protect you from a majority of the risks. The problem is the moment you try to configure these security settings problems can occur (and do occur in many cases).

One thing I want to point out is that securing you computer network (wireless or not) is more about creating deterrence than trying to obtain 100% protection (which you most likely will never achieve). It's really about making yourself as little target as possible. For instance, many people will pull up to a gas station and leave their car doors unlocked while they run into the mini-mart. But how many people do you know that actually leave the car running with the keys in the ignition while they run into the store! Which car is the most likely target of opportunity for a car thief. Same thing applies with wireless networks. Take as many steps as possible to reduce the risks. windowsecurity.com

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