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Securing Wireless
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Due to the large number of manufacturers and versions of routers, we are unable to give specific instructions since every different manufacturer and version will be slightly different and not react to the same methods. However the basic and advanced security steps below once you conslt the router documentation on how to access it are available on most home routers.
Basic
- Change the Default SSID: Devices come with a default system ID called the SSID. If you do not change it, a hacker can identify the make of the router by that SSID. If you are going to be disabling this, use something not easily guessed.
- Enable Encryption: If all of your hardware supports WPA use it, as WEP is less secure. Less secure, however, is better than unsecure so use WEP if you can't use WPA.
- Change the Default Password: You should do this with all hardware and software as the default passwords are easily found with a web search. Also make sure the password is not easily guessed.
Advanced
- Disable SSID Broadcasting: Broadcasting your SSID is like leaving your front door open a crack, anyone driving by can see there is possibly a way in.
- Only allow needed traffic: Most routers have built-in inbound firewalls, enable them, and do not open any ports you don't need.
- Limit DHCP: Many routers have built-in DHCP servers. If you limit this to the number of devices you have that connect to it, it will be a little harder for someone to just jump on and do whatever.
- MAC Filtering: Many routers allow you to filter connections to only allow specific MAC Addresses (Also known as Hardware ID Numbers). Connect all devices you know will connect and view the routers list of connected computers to get the MAC addresses and add them to the filter.
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