The Wireless Internet connection I use is unsecured - Am I at risk from viruses or other problems?

Question

I have not used a WEP code or other security code with my wireless router and have left it unsecured so all the people in my house can use it easily (we are sharing the cost). Are we in danger of getting viruses or other problems? It's a NTL cable internet connection if it makes any difference. Thanks.

Answer 1

You need a networking wireless router. This will allow you to set up the security needed for each computer in the network.

You and the others are at a very high risk. It is not only from the other users you know about, but from anyone nearby that can get your wireless signal and access it.

Get the proper Router and set it up properly.

This information is generalized, but will help you.

Most wireless routers are configured through your Internet browser. So you must connect your wireless router to a computer.

Type your router's IP address into your browser's address bar. You can find the IP address in your router's manual. You'll be prompted for a user name and password. These will also be listed in your manual.

You want to use WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access) encryption to protect your network. You'll typically see this setting as WPA-PSK (pre-shared key). You'll be prompted to enter a password of eight to 63 characters--letters, numbers and symbols. The router will use the password to build an encryption key.

WPA2 is the latest and safest version of WPA. The only weak point of WPA2 is your password. So make it as strong as possible. Here is a tip that will help.

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password.mspx

http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/privacy/password_checker.mspx

Your router may use WPA, the forerunner to WPA2. If so, be sure your password has at least 21 characters.

The earliest security standard is WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). Don't use that; it is easily broken. Check the router manufacturer's site for updates. If there aren't any, don't use the router to go online.

Now you must update your computers. Click Start>>Control Panel. Double-click Network Connections. Right-click Wireless Network Connection. Select Properties from the pop-up menu and select the Wireless Networks tab. You should see your network listed under "Preferred networks." Select it and click Properties. If it's not listed, click the Add button. In the box labeled "Network name (SSID)," enter your network's name.

Under Network Authentication, select WPA-PSK. Select AES under "Data encryption." Under "Network key," enter the same password you used for your router. You must enter it twice to confirm it. Make sure "The key is provided for me automatically" is not checked. Click OK>>OK.

Answer 2

The risk you run using an unsecured wireless connection is that anybody can use the connection to do anything without your control.

There are 2 main types of security, WEP and WPA. WPA is more secure (WEP can be cracked quite easily using software available on the internet).

As long as everyone that uses the connection agrees to the type of security you can let them have the password and they can use the connection as before but without the same risks.

Answer 3

The risk is theoretically from other people using your wireless network and being able to see your internet traffic. This is a real possibility, though online purchases are usually secured with SSL (lock symbol in the browser), but could present privacy concerns for you.

Another risk is from someone using your wireless network and using it to do illegal things. The activity will be traced back to you, and even though you might not end up liable for anything, you could still end up dealing with court time and legal fees.

Modern (but not all) routers have simple one-button WEP or WPA action. Be warned though that usually all computers will handle WEP/WPA fine, there's a little configuration involved, and not all wireless devices (e.g. Nintendo DSes, Tivos, etc.) will work with it.

Answer 4

yes your neigbor can use your internet for free and worse yet they can do nasty deed that can be traced to your home and not theirs.

secure it or else.

just because it's secured doesn't mean others in your house can't share it.

they just have to be setup to that network. but a guest cannot just come in a use the network though.

Answer 5

yes you are you should set it up just press the secure net work button and follow what it says

Answer 6

no more so than if you were secured