OMU Internet Customers Wireless Router Security

What is a Router? A specialized computer device purchased by the customer from a computer store like Radio Shack or Ellingson Sales & Computer, that allow your computers to connect to each other (local area network) or to the Internet (wide area network). Desktop & laptop computers with corresponding wireless adapters can then connect to a wireless router without any cables.

Recently an OMU Customer called to warn of an instance of unauthorized access into their wireless router network. This is known as “war driving”. All a person needs is a laptop supporting a wireless connection and proximity to your unsecured wireless router network to gain access to your unsecured wireless router, your PCs, and your Internet connection. Usually the “criminal” drives through neighborhoods searching for unsecured wireless router networks to access. Once found they can log onto your router, access the Internet, or access your computers. Besides stealing information from a person's computer, other legal dangers exist that could have criminal implications for the innocent customer that was unknowingly hi-jacked. The odds of this occurring in Osage are remote, but it has happened at least once.

There are some easy steps that every wireless router network user can take to avoid being a victim. Most wireless equipment comes with security features that just need to be activated, and experts said it can take less than 15 minutes to set up proper security.

First, make sure the signal is encrypted between the wireless router and connected computers using Wireless Encryption Protocol (WEP) or the newest encryption feature, Wireless Protected Access (WPA). WPA is the preferred encryption protocol.

Second, a wireless router can also be configured to stop broadcasting its name, or SSID, so “war drivers” cannot easily find it over the airwaves.

Third, limit which computers have access to your wireless router network by assigning their Media Access Control (MAC) addresses in your router. Computers without their MAC Addresses assigned in your wireless router configuration are prevented from connecting to your wireless network.

Last, secure the PCs on your wireless router network by using firewalls, anti-virus software, anti-Spyware, and adjusting PC file sharing settings.

Check your wireless router owner’s manual for instructions on how to implement security settings or click on the link below to access your manufactures’ website or contact your local PC technician for assistance.

For more in-depth wireless security articles see URLs listed below or visit www.osage.net/wirelesssecurity.html:

Wireless Security Article: http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleid=1489&page=9

Apple Airport: http://www.apple.com/support/airport/

Dell: http://support.dell.com/support/

D-Link: http://support.dlink.com/SupportFAQ/

Belkin: http://web.belkin.com/support/

Linksys Learning Center: http://www.linksys.com/

Netgear: http://kbserver.netgear.com/kb_web_files/n101379.asp

Please contact OMU if you have any questions about the concerns expressed in this notice otherwise contact your local PC technician to assist you. Thank you for your cooperation.