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    Public wifi concern

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by kenny1999, Aug 3, 2016.

  1. kenny1999

    kenny1999 Notebook Evangelist

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    Should I install any AV or update the Microsoft security packs before connecting to public wifi? or Firewall???

    Is it generally safe to connect to public wifi provided by shopping mall or McDonalds or Starbucks?????
     
    kenny1999, Aug 3, 2016
    #1
  2. TomJGX

    TomJGX I HATE BGA!

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    I would install Avast antivirus at least.. And get Windows firewall enabled...
     
    TomJGX, Aug 4, 2016
    #2
  3. bennni

    bennni Notebook Evangelist

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    If you regulaly use public WiFi and need to do anything remotely sensitive, I'd consider a VPN. Username and passwords are easy to steal on a public network - so at the least use the 'https' version of sites (If possible) when you need to submit passwords etc... For the best protection, IMHO, get a VPN and use a firewall.
     
    bennni, Aug 5, 2016
    #3
    Primes, tijo and downloads like this.
  4. tijo

    tijo Sacred Blame

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    This, if you don't control the hardware or the hardware isn't managed by say the IT department at your workplace, I wouldn't trust it for anything sensitive.
     
    tijo, Aug 8, 2016
    #4
  5. Kaloyan

    Kaloyan Notebook Enthusiast

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    Turn on the Firewall and get some basic AV at least.
     
    Kaloyan, Aug 17, 2016
    #5
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  6. TomJGX

    TomJGX I HATE BGA!

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    I use Avast AV + Windows Firewall, pretty good IMO!
     
    TomJGX, Aug 18, 2016
    #6
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  7. KLF

    KLF NBR Super Modernator Super Moderator

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    My work computer has no wifi enabled. It's either physical lan connection with docking station or 4G wwan and vpn.

    Only wifi I use are in my home and at the office when I'm not at my desk.
     
    KLF, Aug 24, 2016
    #7