Wireless Networks
To cable or not to cable that is the question?
Once you have made the decision to have a network, a lot of small businesses like the idea of going wireless. There are lots of advantages to having a wireless network but also some things you need to be aware of.
Advantages to wireless networks
- No cables
- Inexpensive to install.
- Easy to use
- Freedom to use your laptop anywhere
Disadvantages - What do I need to know?
Stability – A wired network will always be more stable as you have a constant connection to your server. The wireless network uses radio waves to connect, so your signal strength can sometimes be a bit weak. This can also be the case if you have thick walls in your office. So you should really contact an expert to assess what network would be best for you before buying one.
Security can be overlooked. Because the wireless boxes are easy to install, a lot of businesses think they can do this for themselves and save the expense of getting the professionals to do it for them. This can mean that none of the security features are enabled and the wireless box is open for anybody within range of the box to use your bandwidth for FREE.
Top tips for enabling security
- Change the system ID – Your wireless device will come with a default name called an SSID. These names can be easily obtained on the internet. So change it to one only you know.
- Change the administrator password – Again your wireless device will come with a default password that is easily obtained from the internet.
- Ensure all passwords are strong – Make your passwords and SSID strong. They need to be a minimum of 6 characters long with a combination of Letters, numbers and special characters. Special characters are the characters above the numbers 1 – 0 on the top line of your keyboard.
- Don’t broadcast your SSID – Configure your individual computers so that they connect directly to the wireless device without having to refer to the list of available wireless networks.
- Reduce the range of the wireless device – With some devices you can change the signal strength of device. If you are unable to do this place the device as far away from outside walls, windows etc as possible. Remember to perform a check to see how far the signal reaches.
- If you are not going to be accessing your wireless device out of hours then consider switching it off.
- Encrypt the broadcast data between your wireless device and the computers, laptops or PDA’s that are attached to it.
If you would like to know more about implementing a wireless network or how to secure yours better, call us on 01865 487180 or fill out our contact form below and one of our consultants will be pleased to call you back. |
