unsecured vs secured

aumaker · Mar 14, 2009

When I check my wireless internet connection at home, I have 8 other networks in range. My connection, and 2 others are listed as unsecured, but the other 5 are security-enabled wireless network (WPA2). For my computers safety and security should I be security-enabled? If so, how do I do it.

Tom :guns

DavidGP · Mar 14, 2009

Hi Tom

I would set your security to at least WPA/WPA2 depending on what the wireless router has for options, dont set to WEP as its too weak.

To enable it you will need to access your wifi routers menus (route to connect to router will be in the manual), then set to WPA and enter a passcode, the passcode will need to be something you can remember as you will need to enter it once when you 1st connect to your wifi with security enabled, from then on it will remember the settings and code.

If you cannot find the manual, post the routers make and model and we should or you can find the info on the makers support website.

aumaker · Mar 14, 2009

Linksys-G Model WRT54G V4. Manual wasn't much help. went to http://192.168.1.1 but did not see how to set WPA/WPA2.

lbmest · Mar 14, 2009

HERE is a link to the support page for your router.

Download the User Guide (pdf file)
Chapter 6 deals with wireless set up. The Security tab allows you to set up WPA security.
(Possibly updating the firmware would allow you to use WPA2. WPA is still better than WEP in any case.)

Fred_G · Mar 14, 2009

You really should secure your wireless signal. As posted above, it is pretty simple, you select the security you want to use, and setup a password. You should also change the password for access to your router, and don't broadcast your SSID. You don't want some sicko downloading illegal stuff and the cops showing up at your door!

I have a similar Linksys router, but I flashed my firmware to Tomato, but I have the manual laying around somewhere. If you can't find it online, I will post a quick walk through If you need it.

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unsecured vs secured

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