precaution while using wifi

Buy a data plan. As a general rule (unless News of the World had you in its sights), your cellular network is secure. Both ATandT and Verizon have recently introduced affordable global data roaming packages: ATandT gives you 120MB for $30 a month; Verizon offers 100MB for $25. So when in doubt, stick to your wireless carrier.

Wi Fi Protected Setup is an optional feature that simplifies and standardizes the process of configuring and securing a Wi Fi network. It configures the network name (SSID) and WPA2 security for the gateway and client devices on a network and makes adding a new device to your network as easy as pushing a button or entering a personal information number (PIN). Products certified for Wi Fi Protected Setup are available at major electronics retailers and display this identifier mark on their packaging.

1 Change the network name (SSID) from the default name. 2 Change the administrative credentials (username and password) that control the configuration settings of your Access Point/Router/Gateway. 3 Enable WPA2 Personal (aka WPA2 PSK) with AES encryption. 4 Create a network passphrase that meets recommended guidelines. 5 Enable WPA2 security features on your client device and enter the passphrase for your network.

When you add a new device to your Wi Fi network, it s a great time to make sure you re taking advantage of the highest level of security. Take the opportunity to ensure your network is configured for WPA2. If your network was set up some time ago, or a service provider (e.g consultant or cable provider) configured your home network, it may be worth checking that it s configured for the highest level of security. If your network is configured for an older generation of security (WEP or WPA), Wi Fi Alliance

A secure network passphrase greatly enhances network security, so it is important to select an effective passphrase. In general, increasing length, complexity and randomness all improve the quality of a passphrase. Wi Fi Alliance recommends that a passphrase is at least eight characters long, and includes a mixture of upper and lower case letters and symbols. A passphrase should not contain a word found in a dictionary and should not include personal information (identification number, name, address, etc).

Once users have experienced the convenience and freedom of working wirelessly, they want to take their Wi Fi devices on the road. Here are some tips for securing your Wi Fi devices when using them away from your home network.Enable WPA2 security: All of your Wi Fi client devices (laptops, handsets, and other Wi Fi enabled products) should use WPA2. Configure to approve new connections: Many devices are set by default to sense and automatically connect to any available wireless signal. Configuring your client device to request approval before connecting gives you greater control over your connections.Disable sharing: Your Wi Fi enabled devices may automatically enable themselves to sharing / connecting with other devices when attaching to a wireless network. File and printer sharing may be common in business and home networks, but you should avoid this in a public network such as a hotel, restaurant, or airport hotspot.