6 Tips to Improve WLAN Security
Businesses today are increasingly concerned about the security of their company data and information. This concern continues to grow considering the demands of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and the mobile workforce accessing company information from seemingly anywhere. However, with the right safety precautions in place within the wireless WLAN infrastructure, businesses can rest assured their private company information stays just that, private.
Here are some important steps you can take to ensure optimum security:
Tip #1: Set Administrator Controls
The router or access point on your network should require an administrator password to modify or change any settings. Changing to a custom password should be the first step after setting up a new WLAN infrastructure. Never leave the equipment on the default password setting.
Tip #2: Keep the SSID Private
A Service Set Identifier (SSID) is usually automatically broadcasted with the networks name for anyone trying to access area wireless networks. Although it may seem like a convenient way for everyone to identify your network to gain access, it puts your organization at risk for unauthorized guests to get on it. Turning off the SSID makes it invisible to neighboring businesses and guests.
Tip #3: Turn Off Remote Administration Abilities
Routers have remote administration controls that can be used with just an internet connection. Although a convenient way to gain access to the network offsite, it should be used only with specifically identified IP addresses to prevent unauthorized access. Another good tip is to keep this turned off unless it’s an absolute need for the organization.
Tip #4: Use WPA Encryption
A Wired Equivalency Privacy (WEP) has weaknesses that provide easy access for users to break through and gain access to the network. A WLAN with Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is a more secure and user-friendly system. WPA is compatible with all modern operating systems and wireless hardware.
Tip #5: Turn Down the Power
Some routers and access points will allow you to lower the level of power of the WLAN transmitter to reduce the signal range. Although you can’t make this absolutely perfect, you can get the signal precisely enough that it won’t stretch outside the business walls. This process will minimize the ability for outside access to the network.
Tip #6: Buy Quality Equipment from a Trusted Provider
If you are seeking the highest level of reliability, security and operational simplicity, you don’t want to mess around with inferior equipment. Your WLAN should be able to meet the capacity demands of your business, cloud, voice and mobile applications. A quality set up will allow the IT department the ability to easily and effectively integrate, manage and navigate other necessary hardware and software.
At Millennia Technologies, we are a trusted provider of MERU WLAN services. We efficiently use your budget to build the most robust business network possible. We carefully evaluate each element of your WLAN needs to bring in necessary capabilities while leaving room for network scalability as your business evolves and grows. Our MERU partnership allows us to provide a comprehensive, secure, scalable, and cost-efficient WLAN solution. If you want to know more about how you can implement a WLAN that meets the needs of your evolving business, contact us today.
