Thread: free internet access

Skiming through the replies this is what I do:

1. Rename the SSID from default and stop broadcasting it - this is the simplest thing to do to reduce the possibility of intrussion - the default SSID is available on the internet if you know the type of router (and sometimes tells you what type it is)
2. Enable MAC address filtering for only those PC's on the network - this means only recognised wireless PC's will be allowed on the network.
3. In the DHCP Server only allow the same number of IP addresses as you have PC's/Devices on the network that are issued an IP address - router won't handle more PC's than you have in the house.
4. Use a WPA encrypted password - basic protection for network access
5. Set a password for the admin account - the default password is available on the internet (see point 1), make sense to change it.
6. Set a different IP address for the router than the default one - the default IP address is available on the internet (see point 1), make sense to change it.

Most of this information is easily changeable on the average WiFi router.

I would also recommend:
- Downloading the router's manual in PDF form from the manufacturer's website. Why? Because PDF is searchable and makes finding information easier (e.g. RAVE) and also you've got it on your PC and don't have to look for it.

- Not buying a WiFi router and ADSL modem combined. At some time you will most likely need to upgrade the WiFi (eg new technology) but not the modem or visa-versa. Also this allows you to even more effectively firewall the modem from the rest of the network (leave that for another topic)

Originally Posted by p38arover

I was trying to find out how to do that on my router and came across this in a setup file for the router:



I can't see how to disable it on my router. (I won't go into whether "broacasted is a word. Orright, I will - I think it should be "broadcast". )

The lady next door to me installed free broadband and i've been mustering all of my IT ethics not to use it

Securing a wireless network is easy. We've had it going in a populated area for years now without problems.

If you protect yours it will always be easier for someone to choose a non-secured one.

This is a good site with lots of stuff about securing your connection.