image courtesy of flickr user: nrkbeta
Secure Your Router
First, secure your router with a strong network ID and password. Most routers come with a default network name and a simple password pre-loaded. These default settings are readily available online, and are very easy to crack. Read the instructions that are packaged with your wireless router for setting up an individualized network ID and password.
Choose a Strong Password
Avoid words, names, birthdays, or easy to guess passwords such as “password” or “1234”. Most people who experience an unauthorized access of their wireless network aren’t the victims of hacking or cracking software, but instead chose passwords that were disturbingly weak. A secure password should be 8-12 digits and contain letters, numbers, and symbols.
Don’t Broadcast
When installing your router, choose not to broadcast your wireless network. While this does little to actually secure your connection, in the true sense of the word, it does make it invisible to passerby. This step alone can dramatically lower your chances of an unauthorized access attempt, and is is one of the easiest free computer maintenance tips to implement.
Run a Secure Firewall
Windows machines come equipped with both Windows Firewall and Microsoft Security Tips. These two pieces of software can help you to keep your computer safe and secure if you have a home wireless network. A secure firewall will help protect your machine from unauthorized access attempts, viruses, remote access, and more. Microsoft Security Tips will scan your machine regularly and offer easy changes and tweaks you can make to your computer to enhance security.
Disable Remote Administration
If you don’t have a need to allow a remote user, such as a technical support technician or coworker, to access your computer remotely, it may be a good idea to disable remote administration of both your computer and your wireless router. Instructions vary for each individual router model, but should be included in the operating manual. By disabling remote administration, you can prevent an unauthorized user from taki
