I recently entered into a discussion on a website for computer technicians about accessing unsecured wireless networks.  It really got me to thinking about both sides of it.  On one side I have to ask…is your wireless network secure from someone gaining access to your network and using up your bandwidth? The other side is, how many of you have accessed an unsecured network to surf the internet or check emails?

Not many people are aware of this but according to the Canadian Criminal Code Section 326; it is illegal to access a wireless network without permission. Also the onus is on you to prove whether or not you had permission to use that network.  Therefore think twice before you access that open wireless connection unless you’re in a coffee shop or restaurant that allows open access.

In order to stop someone from gaining access to your network you need to secure it with a password.  The most common types of wireless security are WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) and WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access).  . The most secure is the Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA and WPA2) security protocols that were created to address the problems with WEP. WEP is the easiest protocol to crack and has been known to be cracked within 3 minutes.

So if your wireless network isn’t secure you had better do so now.  Not sure how? Read the instructions that came with your router or call someone who knows how to check it.

 Need someone to look at your security concerns

Call Scott’s Computer Emporium @ 519-802-2721

Or email: scott@computeremporium.ca www.computeremporium.ca