July 4, 2011
Wireless networks are extremely comfortable. Once everything is installed, you can very easily connect several devices. But, the trouble that most people face is to set up the network and ultimately hook up each device. Here are some common mistakes that are committed even by the most knowledgeable people while setting up a wireless network.
- Ignoring the manual: It is very important that you read the user manual carefully before trying to connect any device. Most of the mistakes can be avoided if you carefully read the manual.
- Using the default password: Most of the system administrators use the same default password when they set up a wireless network. It is strongly recommended that you change the password otherwise your network would be at the risk of getting hacked. Same should be done with all the devices with whom you are going to connect your wireless network. Also, your password should be a strong one. It should not contain your name, date of birth or any obvious information.
- Not turning Wi-Fi transmission on: Particularly mobile phones and laptops have special settings or buttons to turn on the Wi-Fi transmission. Obviously, if you do not turn it on, you would not be able to even locate other devices, forget about connecting to them.
- Mixing wireless standards: There are a number of wireless standards available like 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g and the most recent is 802.11n. It would be best if you do not mix these standards or technologies. There are also some networks that exclude the devices that support old standards. Thus, if you are unable to connect to any device, this might be the reason.
- Integrating encryption standards: The latest devices usually support Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) encryption. If you try to connect to a device that supports old encryption standards, i.e. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), it is not going to work. Read the manual to find which standards are supported by your device. If it is WPA, make sure you have a strong password to prevent it from being cracked.
- Not using network security: If you do not secure your wireless network properly, it would become an easy target to be hacked. Make sure you have strong passwords, turn on Windows firewall or use firewall, use encryption and keep an eye on your traffic.
- Not checking the network- Make sure you check the network from time to time to make sure that it is working properly. It is better if you detect problems initially rather than spending money thereafter.
These are the most common mistakes that you might make with a wireless network. Make sure you avoid all these in order to make the most of your networking system.
For complete networking solutions, feel free to call us at Centex Technologies at 800. 236. 1497