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    How do I make my Network "Secure"

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Eble29, May 24, 2007.

  1. Eble29

    Eble29 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Just a simple question I guess. Ive done some googling and just get thousands of links, most of which I don't even understand. Ive had this new router for a few days and im noticing my laptop says it is not secured. Any help/ suggestions?

    Mike
     
    Eble29, May 24, 2007
    #1
  2. usapatriot

    usapatriot Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    What router?

    Go to your routers set up page and set up WEP or WPA security.
     
    usapatriot, May 24, 2007
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  3. Eble29

    Eble29 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Linksys, I didn't install its program because windows could connect it fine
     
    Eble29, May 24, 2007
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  4. Eble29

    Eble29 Notebook Enthusiast

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    So I just tried installing the software...everything when fine untill it told me to press the "Cisco" logo on the router. I did and clicked next but its saying I didn't...
     
    Eble29, May 25, 2007
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  5. sp00n

    sp00n Notebook Deity

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    You don't need to install the software to secure your wireless network. Log into your router by going to 192.168.1.1 in your browser's address bar. Type in your user credentials (the default is username: blank password: admin). Go to the wireless tab and select WPA security; don't bother with WEP as it is much inferior than WPA. Once you have typed in your password, hit apply and your router should reset itself. You won't be able to connect to your router now because it's wirelessly secured now. On your laptop, go to the wireless security setting and select WPA. Then type in your WPA password.

    I didn't explain everything in detail, so if you don't understand something, just consult with this guide:
    http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/networking/setup/wireless.mspx

    Important: Make sure to use WPA and NOT WEP.
     
    sp00n, May 25, 2007
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  6. Pitabred

    Pitabred Linux geek con rat flail!

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    It works, but it's still broadcasting everything you do on your wireless connection to anyone nearby who cares to listen, completely unprotected. It will also let anyone connect to it, so they could use your internet connection for who knows what (including illegal things), which would implicate you. That's why it's insecure.
     
    Pitabred, May 25, 2007
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  7. Sykotic

    Sykotic Notebook Evangelist

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    connect via cat5 cable, goto 192.168.1.1 (linksys default) username/password admin/admin look for the wireless tab. Enable wireless then besure to check the enable wpa security. You can choose a key or have it choose one for you. Disconnect your cat cable. Try connecting using your wireless card providing the wireless key that was used. GL

    A few hints for even tighter security, disable the SSID broadcast, esp if its a linksys (the most common brand) Also change the admin password and username. Not sure if Linksys supports mac address filtering but if it does, use it.

    BTW, WEP can be hacked in less than 90 secs.
     
    Sykotic, May 27, 2007
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