Attention all Wi-Fi Users!

Precautions

Use of encryption: All access point equipment comes with some form of
encryption technology that limits access to the Wi-Fi. Care should be taken
to use latest encryption technologies like Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA).

Home users need to use at least the Pre Shared Keys (PSK) to protect
access to their Wi-Fi access point.

Change the default network name or SSID: There is a name assigned
for each WLAN most commonly called Service Set Identifier SSID or Network
Name. War drivers look for SSIDs being broadcast by wireless LANs, then
set that SSID on their client to attempt to join that WLAN. Pre-defined or
default SSIDs again use simple words which are very easy to hack into. To
improve the WLAN security, especially for a home user, it will help to
change the default SSID to a different name when configuring wireless
security on the network.

Stopping SSID broadcast for home: In Wi-Fi networking, the
wireless access point or router broadcasts the network name (SSID) over the
air periodically. This feature was designed for businesses and mobile
hotspots where Wi-Fi clients may roam in and out of range. For home users,
this roaming feature is not needed as it increases the chances of someone
trying to log in to the network.

Enable firewall features of the access point: Modern network
routers contain built-in firewall capability, but the option also exists to
disable them. This should be enabled and updated as it forms the first line
of defense.

Enabling MAC address filtering: Most Wi-Fi access points and
devices come with a feature called MAC address filtering. This feature in
most cases is not configured as it involves effort on the part of the user.
It is strongly recommended to enable and use MAC address filtering to
improve the security of home users. The access point or router performs an
additional check on a different parameter that reduces the likelihood of
network break-ins.

Turning off access points when not in use: Though it will not be
practical to switch off the devices often but is always advisable to do it
during travel or extended periods and curtail exposure.

Safe positioning of access points: Although of limited help, one
should always try to position Access point devices near the center of the
home rather than near windows to minimize Wi-Fi signals leakage.

Regular change
of administrator passwords & usernames: For all access points in WLAN,
there is an administrative account for access to the configuration utilities
with a username and password. Mostly the access points/routers/devices come
preset with the manufacturing company having set the username and password.
Therefore there is need to change password and username immediately after
installing the unit.

Enabling MAC-address filtering: In case of WLANs in corporate
networks, administrators must configure a list of clients that will be
allowed to join the network by MAC addresses of each client. Once enabled,
whenever the wireless access point or router receives a request to join with
the WLAN, it cross checks the MAC address of that client against the list.

User identification as a critical security measure: Many
corporates fail to identify the internal users within their security
framework. They function on the basis of the IP addresses of the user PCs.
In the absence of user identification, if the corporate Wi-Fi has been
accessed by an intruder, the security devices in place would allow the
intruder to access the Internet through the corporate network.

Hotspot Wi-Fi security: The major concern of users at Wi-Fi
hotspots is security. WEP and WPA used in protecting private wireless
networks, arent implemented.

Precautions:

Avoid connecting to open Wi-Fi networks: Connecting to an open Wi-Fi
network such as a free wireless hotspot or a neighbors router exposes the
computer to security risks.

Use caution while at public hotspots: When using an unsecured
wireless network, such as a hotspot in a hotel, cafe, airport or any other
public location, one should avoid working with sensitive information
regarding financial transactions, identification detail and other important
information.

Cyberoam is a key player in the network security area and has expertise
and experience in providing network security to businesses across the globe.
The security issues related to WLAN are of special concern to Cyberoam.
Cyberoam believes that emphasizing on user education and awareness, goes a
long way for a safe surfing experience in a Wi-Fi setting.