Technology
Setting Up A Wireless Network
Since my wife and I are both highly active Internet users, I decided to set up a wireless network at home. So I went out, bought the only piece of equipment I needed, and set it up. The quick setup instructions were very easy to follow, and if you read the manual as well, you too could set up a relatively secure wireless network on your own. That's what my friend did, after I answered some of her questions, but she set it up all on her own.
Equipment Needed: I already had an Internet connection. I discussed it in this article. Obviously, I needed a computer with wireless capability. And then I need a wireless router. But first, I needed to make sure that what I'm getting is compatible with my existing computer. Older computers may have equipment that followed the 802.11a or 802.11b standard. Newer ones might follow the 802.11g. As of mid-2006, the 802.11n is still in draft, and is not yet a standard.
If you have an older computer with 802.11a or 802.11b, you can get a wireless router compliant with the 802.11g standard, as this is backward-compatible with the older standards. The only drawback is that you won't be able to utilize some of the features exclusive to 802.11g, like the 54Mbps throughput. This doesn't matter though if your Internet connection is significantly lower than that, like in my case, 3Mbps.
Another feature I was keen on having was the ability to connect regular Ethernet wires. In my case, I still had an older computer that did not have any wireless capability. Best Buy and Circuit City carries many such equipment. I bought a Belkin Wireless G-Router for $39.99 at Best Buy. Other brands are Linksys and Netgear.
Setup: If you follow the easy setup instructions, you will be up and running in a few minutes. The problem with the easy setup is that it skips the all important security measures to protect your network from unauthorized use. So I would recommend reading the manual to enable the following features:
- Password for Wireless Router Administration
- Change Default LAN Settings
- Change Your SSID
- Do Not Broadcast Your SSID
- Enable WPA-TKIP
- Enable MAC Address Filtering
The User Manual of your wireless router will provide enough information for you to perform the tasks required. If you are in the San Jose, CA area and need help, contact me. Rates are reasonable.
These steps are important to help prevent unauthorized access. With an unsecured wireless network, a reasonably resourceful person with malicious intent can get on your network, shut it down, or prevent you from getting access, or monitor the information you get and send over the Internet.
While the steps I outlined will secure your network, it is necessary to say that no system or network is totally secure. With enough time, resource and knowledge, someone will be able to crack your passwords or guess your MAC address. It is important to keep abreast of developments in wireless networks, wireless security, and perform preventive maintenance and monitoring.
Or you can always pay someone to maintain your network and all your computers. I might be able to help. Contact me for details.
This article was originally written in November 2005. Additional comments and updates have been made in my blog.