Wireless LAN (Local Area Networks), is transforming the workplace. It provides greater flexibility, mobility, and better access for employees. Many companies have representatives who work remotely and need constant connectivity to the office. Laptops are replacing desktop computers and providing greater mobility. This is happening right now, and technology has experienced rapid growth to match the boom in the market. Now the question is, "Do we really need wireless capabilities?" How can we maximize this investment and ensure that the company's network is safe?
There are two possible routes for hackers to gain access to your files. Some bosses are not happy about the possibility of your network being accessed remotely. This is why wireless hasn't grown at such a rapid pace in recent years. Wireless is now a secure entity and large corporate infrastructures can enjoy the freedom of WLAN without any intrusion from unwelcome attention. These companies can provide guest access for contractors/ visitors without compromising confidential information and create hot desking scenarios for satellite staff to save office space. This allows them to keep in touch with the office from their location while they are on the other side. Many coffee shops offer wi-fi access, so that even if they are in unfamiliar areas, reps can keep in touch and check their emails frequently. They can also send and receive reports at a fast rate throughout the day. What are the potential threats? Laptops that are searching for an internet signal may be vulnerable to being attacked as they open themselves up to receiving an input signal.
Hackers can access other laptops in public areas to examine the files of victims. It is not difficult to imagine what type of information could be at stake here. This Broadcom españa could include personal or corporate material that may be highly sensitive. This hacking is called "peer-to-peer" hacking. However, the victim never actually hacked into any data. The innocent laptop was simply searching the internet for access, and then offered its services to the intruder. While the worker was unaware, the hacker took advantage of the situation. Another scenario is when a satellite worker visits an office and uses it as a place to work. Instead of searching the office for wireless signals, he chooses to use a lead and connect his laptop manually to the network. It seems easy enough. While he's working, his laptop is still looking for a wireless network, which will give him access to the corporate LAN. To connect to this peer-to-peer point, it would take only a few minutes. They will then have direct access the building's infrastructure without the need to authenticate. This creates the potential for attacks and has led to expensive hacks in past.
This is good news because it is well-understood and can be stopped. There are different levels of security that can be required for each industry. However, the most secure areas in the country are confident enough to allow wireless capabilities. Wireless is used by logistics companies to perform mission-critical operations that wouldn't be possible without it. WLAN allows retailers to make more sales and get vital information faster, increasing their revenues. Customers' payment details are kept confidential. Increased revenue is being realized by coffee shops that offer wireless services for satellite workers and commuting. Students can be protected from the cleverest hackers and increase their access to educational resources. Even banks and finance can increase efficiency and productivity using wireless technology and can feel confident about protecting their networks with the latest technology.
How can you enjoy the benefits of WLAN without worrying about losing your sleep?
1. Passwords - Most of your 'out of the box' solution will include administrator passwords/ usernames that you can use to log in and use your new tool. You can change the passwords as soon as possible. You should make your password as unpredictable and random as possible by using numbers and capital letters in addition to plain text.
2. Encryption: After you have changed your usernames and passwords, upgrade your encryption. In 30 seconds, the WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy Standard) can be hacked and all data on the network compromised. There are better versions available so make sure to research the options before you accept the version that is given to you.
3. Authentication - Determine how your employees will authenticate themselves in order to gain access. Is this system easy to crack? Consider implementing IPSec/ SSL VPN gateways for satellite staff. For highly sensitive networks, 'two-factor authentication' may be necessary. It is best to maintain uniform authentication across the company.
4. Rogue Detection – For an additional premium, there are services that can continuously scan your network and check for rogue Access Points (APs). You will be notified if there is any suspicious activity in your airspace. The technology can be used to automatically cut connections to rogue APs without the Network Manager having to authorize it.
5. Evaluation - After you have put together your security policy, you should regularly assess it to make sure that it meets the standards you have set.
This article will give you a brief overview of how to secure your corporate WLAN. However, many of these points merit a complete article. This was meant to show that there are many ways to secure a wireless network for your company. It is possible to make sure that the money you spend on security is an investment, and not a mere expense.
