Tech Spotlight

Wireless Router security has become a hot topic. There are many unprotected Routers all over the place.  The reason is, the manufacturers turn off the security features out of the box to limit phone calls to their support departments because it can be a little tricky if you are not familiar with the setup process.  When you bring home a new Wireless Router you simply plug it in, connect it and browse to your local network and hit connect.  For the not-so-technical people it is fairly an easy process.

#1 Browse to your Router Administration page.
In your Internet Browser type in the IP address corresponding to the model router you have.  Belkin (192.168.2.1).  D-Link (192.168.0.1).  Linksys (192.168.1.1).  Netgear (192.168.1.1).  If you have another brand Router, check with the documentation for the configuration address.

Now a pop-up should appear asking for a user name and password.  Each manufacturer has default credentials.  Check with the manual to see what they are.  After the correct credentials are entered, the Router Main Menu should appear.

#2 Change the default user name and password.
These settings are located in different spots on all Routers, but you will want to change the administrator user name and password.  If these credentials are not changed off of the default ones and someone has access to your network, they can modify all of the settings, causing you headaches.

#3 Turn on WPA Wireless Security.
Again, this setting is located in different areas on all Routers.  There should be a Security Tab or Heading.  You will have a few settings here.  Choose WPA or WPA2, then you must enter a unique password or pass phrase.  Remember this!  This will be how you connect to the Router when setting up individual computers for Internet access.

#4 Save settings.
When you have changed the credentials and enabled the Wireless Security, find Save Settings and hit OK or Apply.

To connect to the Router to allow access for your local computers, find the search for wireless connections in your OS.  Once you find yours, click on it to connect.  Before there was security enabled it immediately connected and you were on the Internet.  Now, you will have to enter the password or pass phrase you typed in, on step #3.  This alone will stop neighbors or random people from connecting to your Router and having access to your local network.

I know the steps can sound confusing, but with a little navigating you should be able to choose and change the settings in you Router.  These are basic steps for setting up security.  For detailed instructions, a lot of Routers include a CD-Rom with their product.  It is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with security and protecting your network.

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