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Data Backup & Configuration Imaging
Wireless Network Security:
For the last 8 years, wireless networks have been growing in popularity, becoming "trendy" in some ways.
As with most trends, some have implemented wireless networks without fully considering the issues and alternatives.
The main issues facing wireless networks are:
1. Change: This is a fast developing technology with few lasting standards.
2. Security: Wireless networks communicate using radio frequencies. Transmissions are easily intercepted and must be encrypted to provide any level of security.
3. Ease of use: Methods used to encrypt wireless network transmissions have significantly increased the level of complexity of these networks, which makes the technology less user friendly.
4. Reliability: Frequencies used are shared with other devices such as cordless phones. Electromagnetic interference is common and causes many intermittent problems, which are the most difficult to trace and eliminate.
The alternative is:
Wired networking - Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet are the most commonly used. A mature technology based on well established engineering standards. Considerably faster than wireless. Physically security is higher because network signals run through cables. Reliability and ease of use are also much better than wireless.
Due to these issues, and the excellent alternative, one should only implement wireless network technology if it is the only viable option. Any short term economic savings perceived (in not having to run wires) is a false economy, due to the expenses that will be incurred in dealing with issues 1 through 4 listed above.
Wireless Network "Trolling"
By now, most are familiar with Email Phishing, i.e. broadcasting emails about a fraudulent scam to as many addresses as possible. This practice works because some small percentage of recipients will "fall for" the deception, and will thereby make the scam pay off, whatever it may be.
Similarly, wireless networks are now so common that it is possible to extend this Phishing concept (Trolling!?!) to them as well. In high population density areas, it is sometimes possible to access and choose among several unsecured wireless networks from one location. Because these networks are not properly secured, the "Troller" can:
1. Steal Internet access.
2. Access shared folders.
3. Plant viruses, trojans, spyware or other malware.
4. Vandalize.
If a wireless network is your only option, then it is almost always necessary to secure it. As stated above, this added security mandates a higher level of complexity in the setup and use of your network.
Rent-A-Nerd stands ready to help with your computer and network support needs.
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