Setting Up A Secure Home Wireless Network - 2 Simple Steps To Protect Your Privacy

Securing a home wireless network is a two step process. The first step is to ensure network security by securing the wireless access point or router. All of this can normally be done through the web based software interface of the device, by typing in the default address of ?92.168.0.1?

The first thing that needs to be changed is administrator username and password. Many networks are hacked into, simply because nobody bothered changing the default values. This is the same as most VCRs still blinking 12:00 because no one changed the time. Once this is done, enable MAC address filtering, and add computers based on their MAC address. This option will allow only those specified computers to connect to the network, but will not however guarantee total security.

The network SSID defines a name for the network. The default value of this should be changed to an obscure and long string. This value should be written down in a safe place and entered into the machines that are allowed to connect. Disabling the broadcast of the network SSID also provides an extra layer of security as the network will not advertise itself to outsiders.

Encryption should also be enabled. The default encryption is normally weak and can be easily broken. Normally WEP (Wireless Equivalent Privacy) is used for data encryption, however where available try and use WPA-PSK encryption. This method uses 256 bit encryption for transmitting data and the key also changes so provides a far more secure alternative to WEP.

Some routers have firewalls built in. Where available make sure that this option is enabled.

The second step of securing a home wireless network is securing each individuals PC. This can be done by installing a software firewall (this may not always be necessary if a hardware firewall is installed), antivirus software, anti-spam and pop-up blocking software. It is essential to keep this software up to date, as downloading the latest security updates for the operating system and web browser you are using.

You can manage your home network yourself if you have the time, or you can buy a home networking software that will monitor your network and alert you to any intruders or weak security measures for about $30. Whichever way you choose to do it make sure you secure your home wireless network.

About the Author

Wallace Renckers is a wireless networking fanatic who runs Home Wireless Network. Get your free wireless network software that makes setting up a home wireless network a breeze. Solve your own connectivity and security problems and leave tech support alone.

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Broadband - How to Switch

Nowadays, there are so many different choices of broadband provider there's no need to stay with one that's making you unhappy. Thousands of people switch their providers every week, and most find they get a better deal for their troubles.

If you have decided to switch, use a broadband comparison tool to find out what deals are available in your area. Some providers won't be available in your region, so get a clear idea of your options. Take all factors into account, not just the monthly price. Some providers advertise a price of 6.49 per month, but in the small print state that this rises to 12.99 after three months, so watch out for any introductory offers and make sure you'll be able to afford the regular price. Also bear in mind the advertised download speed may be much higher than you could actually get.

Switching can sometimes be difficult, depending on your provider, and it's not a simple overnight procedure. The existing provider will not want you to leave, so they may try and stall your leaving by making it difficult for you to contact them - having a separate department for cancellations which is always 'busy' when you try and call them. Your new provider will attempt to make the change as smooth as possible for you - after all, they want your custom - but they also need assurance that you will be a good customer, so they may carry out a credit check before switching you over.

If your reason for switching is just to get a better deal, speak to your current provider; they may be able to offer you a different package without the hassle of changing providers. This will however reset your contract back to the start, so if you're also unhappy with other factors such as customer service, you can turn this new offer down and ask for your MAC instead.

The MAC is the Migration Authorisation Code, and is a 10-15 digit code needed to transfer you from one provider to another. It enables the BT engineer to locate your connection and pass it on to your new provider. The MAC is mandatory for all providers, and your provider will be breaking the law if they refuse to supply you with one. A MAC is free the first time, but you may be charged if you ask for more than one. The code is valid for 30 days from generation, so wait until you are ready to make the switch before requesting it.

Once you have your MAC, make sure you pass it onto your new provider within 30 days. Your current provider may decide to make things difficult for you at this point; they still control your broadband connection so they could terminate it until the switch is over, leaving you without internet access. Try to avoid getting into dispute with them and you may avoid this.

If you are unhappy with your broadband provider for any reason, you are within your rights to switch, but if you are under a minimum contract you may be charged a fee for leaving before this runs out. Check the regulations of any new for the minimum contract period, and make sure you're ok with this before switching.

Slow broadband? Take a broadband speed test and find out how slow your connection is. Search for cheap broadband with a better speed online.

J Tillotson is a UK author specialising in technology and communications

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