Wireless networks are great, but you need to take some precautions to ensure the security of your network. In this post we are finishing our look at the seven important steps you can take to better ensure the security of your WiFi network. In this post we will cover steps you can take that do not involve administration of the router itself. These steps are not nearly as important as steps 1, 2 and 3 which I recommend as a minimum but they do add some additional layers of security.

Step 5 - Router positioning

If you have some flexibility in terms of where you can place your router or access point within your home, then choose a position that minimises the leakage of your wireless signal outside of your house. This will reduce the likely hood of your signal being picked up by somebody who might be tempted to try and connect.

Step 6 - Use your router’s firewall

The vast majority of routers and access points, like the Linksys WRT54GL Wireless G Router for example, provide an internal firewall. Make sure that this is activated. I would still recommend that you use individual software firewalls on any computers running on your network

Step 7 - Turn off when not required

The last step you should take is to turn off your wireless access point when it is not required. This has to be practical of course so there is probably little point in turning off the wireless network every night, but if you are going to be away for a few days then it would probably make sense.

Summary

So just to recap the most important steps to take to secure your network are steps 1, 2 and 3 and I would advise these in all cases. The remaining steps are worthwhile and provide additional layers of security.

For the previous posts see;

7 steps to increase wireless network security: Part 1
7 steps to increase wireless network security: Part 2