Security Setup of a Wireless Network

If you only have 802.11g devices, then configure your Wireless Access Point for only 802.11g (G Only) devices instead of Mixed Mode which allows connections from 802.11b devices.

Now, to secure the Network we will choose to encrypt the data using one of 2 popular methods WPA-PSK (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). WPA is the stronger security option.

WPA Setup

First configure your Router then your Wireless computers with the same settings.WPA-PSK has 2 encryption algorithm choices (AES or TIP), select either option.Next enter a Passcode of 8-32 characters. The harder it is to guess, the more secure your network will be.

Now your Router is set up, proceed to set up your Wireless Devices with these same settings.

In Windows XP it is recommended to use the Wizard in the Wireless Network Connection window to set things up.

Alternatively, you can go to Change Advanced Settings, then Wireless Network Connection Properties and click on the Wireless Networks tab. Select your Network and click on Properties.

Now select WPA-PSK for Network Authentication, your choice of Data Encryption method and enter your Passcode for the Network Key.

Now you should be able to connect via your Secure Wireless Network.