WLAN security checklist

WLAN security goes a little beyond wired LANs. Stay safe and don't pay for a costly mistake that can be avoided. This tip is directed toward IT professionals and network administrators.

WLAN Checklist

WLAN's are fast, reliable, but how do you protect your WLAN and your investment? I am assuming you are running more than a home network and you have servers running.

The Checklist:

  • DO NOT allow SMTP relay.
  • DO use SMTP authentication.
  • Get a Firewall/NAT router (we use Cisco.)
  • Secure all user accounts with hard to guess passwords.
  • Monitor your network traffic and block unknown IP/ranges.
  • If you use a VPN - secure it too.
  • Backup all data!
  • Use http authorization to get to the Internet. Some proxy servers support this. Proxy + is a good one.
  • Use a stateful packet inspection firewall.
  • Update A/V definitions daily if possible.
  • If you need better than normal authentication, try using an RSA SecurID solution, smart cards, or similar.

    WLAN's are vulernable and it is a good idea to follow a few simple tips to better protect your WLAN. Hackers are smart too but when your WLAN is protected they very well may get frustrated give up.

      • Requires Free Membership to View

      Login

    Join the conversationComment

    Share
    Comments

      Results

      Contribute to the conversation

      All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.

      Disclaimer: Our Tips Exchange is a forum for you to share technical advice and expertise with your peers and to learn from other enterprise IT professionals. TechTarget provides the infrastructure to facilitate this sharing of information. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or validity of the material submitted. You agree that your use of the Ask The Expert services and your reliance on any questions, answers, information or other materials received through this Web site is at your own risk.

      Back to top