As Wi-Fi networks become increasingly ubiquitous in modern-day life, many individuals rely on them to access the internet, stream content, and communicate with others. Unfortunately, unsecured Wi-Fi networks can leave users vulnerable to hackers, viruses, and other malicious online activities. For this reason, individuals need to recognize a secure Wi-Fi network that is capable of providing reliable and private access. There are four key ways to determine whether a Wi-Fi network is secure.
1. Look at The Network’s Name or Service Set Identifier (SSID)
Generally, home-based networks will have an exact network name, while accessible public networks, such as those provided at airports, coffee shops, and other public places, will have generic SSIDs. Before connecting to any public Wi-Fi network, users should view the SSID to ensure the network is clearly labeled as official and legitimate. Additionally, what looks like a secure network in one place may not be secure in another; therefore, individual users should assess each new network for security credentials.
2. Verify the Type of Encryption the Network is Using
Verifying the type of encryption used on a network ensures that data is secure and private. Different encryption levels offer varying degrees of protection; some can be more easily broken than others. Therefore, verifying the type of encryption employed on the Wi-Fi network makes it possible to determine whether the security measures employed are adequate for protecting essential data or communications. Knowing the type of encryption a network uses also provides insight into whether any malicious actors have hacked it, as hackers usually try to break weaker encryptions first. Verifying the encryption level also helps ensure that all devices accessing the Wi-Fi network utilize compatible security protocols so that communication can quickly occur between them safely and securely.
3. Enable Network Authentication
Wireless network authentication is an important security measure for any professional organization. By enabling secure Authentication Protocols such as EAP, PEAP, and 802.1x, organizations can protect sensitive data from unauthorized access by instituting stringent requirements on those who wish to gain access to the network. These protocols also help protect the integrity of a wireless network by ensuring that only authorized devices can connect and that malicious traffic isn’t allowed through. Organizations can ensure secure data transmission without deploying additional hardware by leveraging authentication-based encryption. Ultimately, wifi enabled network authentication provides peace of mind and increased safety for any professional organization’s digital assets.
4. Enable MAC Address Filtering
MAC stands for Media Access Control. Specifically, this process allows for the authentication of clients identified by their unique Media Access Control (MAC) address before being given access to the wireless network. Limiting access to only authenticated devices can prevent unauthorized individuals or malicious entities from gaining access and creating havoc on the organization’s confidential information or disrupting networks with malicious intent. Therefore, enabling MAC Address Filtering provides an additional layer of security and plays an essential role in maintaining a secure corporate environment.
By staying aware of the network type, encryption, authentication, and MAC address filtering, Wi-Fi users can enjoy safe and secure internet access.