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Having your own home wireless network can be both incredibly useful, and extremely convenient. However, in a world where identity theft, online fraud and viruses are running rampant, it is absolutely vital that you do everything within your power to secure your wireless signal. Even though obtaining free Internet access dishonestly is illegal, many people still continue to piggyback off of another’s wireless broadband Internet connection. Here are some tips that will hopefully help you secure your wireless network to protect your Internet access.

1 – Is my Network Secured? If you have not already set up a security password, then your network probably is not secured. Go to ‘My Network Places’ on your personal computer, and look for your wireless network. Is there a picture of a padlock next to the name of your WiFi network? If there is no padlock, you’d better get some security!

2 – Use WPA. Most new routers offer what is called WPA or WiFi Protected Access and Wired Equivalent Privacy or WEP passwords. You will find that WPA offers an increased amount of security, so as long as your computer and other hardware is compatible, you should always opt for WPA as the safer choice.

3 – Increased Security. You should always make use of comprehensive anti-virus software like McAfee or Norton, in order to protect yourself from viruses and other nasty things that can open up your PC and make it more vulnerable to hackers. Make sure that your virus prevention software is always up to date by checking for updates regularly on the provider’s website. You should also make use of a firewall if possible. Use one on your PC and on your router if you can.

4 – Isolate your WiFi Signal. Wireless isolation is meant to make your signal invisible to anyone who is looking for a WiFi signal in your area. This is typically available in all routers, but must be physically enabled by the user in order to make it work.

5 – Make Use of an Access List. If you are still worried about WiFi signal protection, you can use an access list that uses the MAC or Media Access Control for each computer as a way to identify them. You can tell your router which MAC addresses can be allowed, and which should be blocked. This means that having your router password is not enough, in order for a hacker to steal your internet access they would also have to be on your allow list.