A virus, among other threats, can easily infect computers if solid home network isn’t secured. Not having some form of security leaves the door wide open for threats to enter a computer, and creates a large hassle that can easily be avoided with minor effort.

“I had a virus because I was using an open network [at home],” said Jenna Davis, an interior design student. “After a while, I started to notice glitches, and it wouldn’t work properly.”

If the home network has a wireless router, basic protection against Internet threats exists automatically. But following the manual to set up a username and password on the router will protect the network from advanced intruders.

“A lot of people don’t want to go to through the hassle of figuring it out,” says Dwayne Harapnuik, manager of educational technology at Lethbridge College. “Turn wireless security on and use the highest level of encryption [WPA].”

Protection comes from having the username and password set up on the computers. It won’t stop a determined hacker, but it can act as a deterrent.

“In an unsecured network, if they find a computer that hasn’t been secured, files on your system can be accessed,” says Harapnuik. “But they have to know what they’re doing. Have a username and password, it’s like locking your doors.”

Lethbridge College uses two wireless networks, LC Guest, which is open to everyone, and network for staff, which isn’t open to everyone because of a username and password and encryption.

Anyone with issues regarding the LC Guest network is encouraged to visit the Library Commons with their questions. Employees won’t be aware of a problem with the network unless students bring it to their attention.

Originally posted 2008-11-27 14:12:56. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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