Secure a Network
Edited by Jeff Meyer, Lynn, Melsan, Melissa Meyer and 2 others
After securing your password and computer, the next step is to secure your home network. Even if you are adhering to the best security practices, you'll want to make sure that other computers or devices that join your network are protected as well. This protects both your visitors, and yourself from threats brought in from outside.
Ways to ensure security
- 1This is the point where your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) public network joins to your home network. The firewall should be modern, and you should make sure you keep it updated regularly.Have a hardware firewall (or router) at the "edge" of your network.
- 2They are more secure than wireless.Whenever possible, use wired connections to your network.
- 3If you are sharing folders with other computers on your network, enable passwords and access controls for those shared folders.
- 4Enable logging on your firewall, and check the logs regularly.
Firewall configuration tips
- 1The instructions that you give your firewall regarding access are called "rules"
- 2Only use outgoing rules when you need to make changes.
- 3Unless you are an advanced user, it is highly unlikely that you'll need to make incoming rules.
- 4Disable guest access to your wireless network.
- 5NEVER use the WEP, Wired Equivalent Privacy, security mode on any wireless router.
Wireless Configuration Tips
- 1Do not use WEP as a security, as this can be easily hacked.
- 2Select WPA2-PSK [AES] for your WiFi security.
- 3This will help you secure the network, and prohibit unknown users to connect.Enable MAC Filtering on your router.
- 4Make sure that you do not leave your Guest WiFi network unsecured, and use WPA2 as a security.
- 5Disable the broadcast of the WiFi network to remain hidden.
Tips and Tricks
- A secure network is one of your best defenses against cyber-attacks. The benefits are well worth the effort required.
- A secure network is necessary, even if you are just using your computer at home, as a lot of your personal transactions can be seen and used by online attackers. You would not want them to see your bank account information or even your Facebook login information.
- Never be too trusting, even when you are just sharing your network connection with your neighbor. Always maintain your privacy by securing your network, no matter what.
- If in any doubt, consult an expert to setup a secure network for you. While the steps are easy to follow, if you feel you would like to double check on certain steps, get the advice of another person who is knowledgeable on this matter.
If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.
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Categories : Noindexed pages | Networking
Recent edits by: Eng, Melissa Meyer, Melsan