Wireless Security – Stay Safe On The Go

In this age of broadening computer use, being connected constantly is an essential convenience that we can’t seem to go without. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility of wireless security.

While many of us have 3G connections that go directly to an ISP, sometimes I’ll break out my Chromebook and connect to the Wi-Fi at a coffee shop or in the train station to do some work or catch up on emails and news. Since Wi-Fi is so readily available, not many of us think about wireless security and how to protect our data.

The Dangers of Wi-Fi

When you’re on an open wireless network, you data is transmitted in the clear. That is, anyone with the right equipment can read what you’re sending to the Wireless Access Point (WAP).

Some websites allow encrypted connections that protect the data that you’re sending, but that’s not enough wireless security when you’re working with important documents or sending sensitive information by email. Therefore, you have to take wireless security seriously and understand how to connect through Wi-Fi safely.

How to Protect Your Data

There are a couple of different solutions for wireless security that you can make use of to protect yourself and your business.

Virtual Private Network (VPN): Using a VPN encrypts all the data that passes to and from your computer. Even if a hacker is capturing the data, they will not be able to read it. A VPN can be set up for your company by most IT consultants.

3G access: If you have a 3G access point, your connection through the cellular network is one that you can trust. Most cellular providers also offer basic VPN connection encryption with provides top-notch wireless security.

Protect Your Computer

Dangerous wireless connections is the not the only culprit when travelling. You also need to protect your physical computer from theft and malicious intents.

Your computer itself is an important asset that you need to keep safe. Never leaving it alone with strangers is a good step to take, but there are going to be times that it isn’t in your direct possession.

To protect yourself from the liability of data loss and laptop theft, there are a number of steps you can take.

Wireless Security Against Theft

Encryption: Encrypt your important data and documents. By encrypting your data, you cover yourself against the possibility that someone might gain access to your computer. Even if they do manage to crack your login password, your company’s information will stay safe.

Physical Security: Use good physical security. Use a laptop lock if you’re going to leave your laptop unattended in a hotel room. If you can’t bolt it down to something heavy, put it in a wall-safe or secret it away where someone won’t stumble across it.

PC Tracker: Install a PC tracker like Prey to track down your missing hardware in the event that it’s stolen. It’s a last-ditch long-shot, but won’t hurt your chances.

Next week we will cover how to encrypt your important data and documents as a continuation of staying safe on the go. In the meantime, contact us to see how easy it is to setup a VPN for your own company.

Tags: laptop security, protecting data while traveling, traveling with technology, wifi security, wireless security

This entry was posted on Friday, September 2nd, 2011 at 2:49 PM and is filed under security, wireless. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.