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Securing Your Wireless Network

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Wi-Fi offers users easy wireless network set-up, access, and use. But because the standard was designed with only limited security capabilities - basically, to foil casual eavesdropping rather than more powerful forms of attack - it's essential for HP customers to understand that Wi-Fi is subject to well-known and well-documented security vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
Learn more about wireless network security and other wireless tips by visiting the HP Wireless Network Center .
Overview
Unlike wired networks, wireless networks use radio signals to communicate. Because radio signals travel outside your network, other wireless devices can pick up unprotected signals and either connect to your network (uninvited) or capture information being sent across it. For example, a network set up in your home might be accessible by your next-door neighbor.
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Protect your wireless network
Consider the following security measures when setting up your wireless network.
Use a wireless transmitter with built-in security
Many wireless base stations, gateways or routers provide built-in security features such as wireless security protocols and firewalls. With the correct wireless transmitter, you can protect your network from the most common wireless security risks.
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Work behind a firewall
A firewall is a barrier that checks both data and requests for data that are sent to your network, and discards any suspicious items. Firewalls are available in many varieties, both software and hardware. Some networks use a combination of both types.
Use wireless encryption
There are a variety of sophisticated encryption protocols available for your wireless network. Find the solution that works best for your network security.
Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP)
Wired Equivalent Protocol (WEP) is a wireless security protocol that encodes or encrypts all network data before it is transmitted using a WEP key. Usually, you can allow your setup program to assign your network a WEP key. Alternatively, you can set up your own key, generate a different key, or choose other advanced options. Without the correct key, users will not be able to use the wireless network.
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access)
Like WEP, WPA uses security settings to encrypt and decrypt data that is transmitted over the network. However, instead of using one static security key for encryption as WEP does, WPA uses Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) to dynamically generate a new key for every packet and generate different sets of keys for each computer.
Close your network
If possible, prevent your network name (SSID) from being broadcast by the wireless transmitter. Most networks broadcast the name by default, telling any computer nearby that your network is available. By closing the network, other computers are less likely to know that your network exists.
NOTE: If your network is closed and the SSID is not broadcast, you will need to know or remember the SSID in order to connect new devices to the network. Write the SSID down and store it in a secure place before closing your network.
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Security in public spaces
Wireless networks in public areas or "HotSpots" like coffee shops and airports may not provide any security. New technologies are being developed by wireless manufacturers and HotSpot service providers that make the public environment more secure and anonymous. If you are concerned about the security of your computer in a HotSpot, limit your network activities to non-critical e-mail and basic Internet surfing.
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