NetComm NP5400 - Manual (Page 5)

Rev. 1 - YML668 www.netcomm.com.au
NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide Page 5
How to Make Your Wireless Network More Secure
Wireless networks can be vulnerable to an outsider gaining access if the encryption
settings are not set adequately. Some of the default security settings on some wireless
hardware, and in Microsoft Windows, may allow access to your wireless network from
other wireless devices.
The concepts that are presented here are offered only as a guide, and may help make
your wireless network more difficult for an outsider to gain access. For more specific
information about the implementation of these suggestions, you should consult a
trusted security source.
■ Enable Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption.
The 802.11 standard, which your NetComm WLAN device is based on, permits Wired
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption. Depending on what other hardware you use, there are
two levels of WEP typically available: 64-bit encryption (based on a 40-bit encryption key),
and 128-bit encryption (based on a 104-bit key). We strongly recommend that you enable
WEP.
■ Change the default Service Set Identifier (SSID) and passwords for your network devices.
Do not change the SSID or password to reflect your name, address, or anything that would
be easy to guess as this could make it easy for an outsider to gain access to your wireless
network.
■ Install Access Points away from windows or building perimeter.
If you are installing access points, think about locating them towards the centre of your site
instead of near the windows. Plan your coverage to radiate out to the windows, but not
beyond. If the access points are located near the windows, a stronger signal will be radiated
outside your home making it easier for those outside the building to locate your network.
■ Check the range of your network.
Take a notebook, or a PDA computer, that is equipped with a wireless network PC Card and
go outside your home to survey what range you get when moving around your property or
neighbourhood. You may be surprised how far the signal radiates. If you can connect beyond
the perimeter of your property, so can someone else.
■ Disable the Beacon.
If possible, disabling the beacon will make it harder for hackers to locate and identify your
network.
■ Use a combination of the previous suggestions.