Home Wireless Network Security

[c327]

I have a home wireless DSL network that consists of an XP Pro desktop that is wired to a router/modem. Also have. Laptop and an iPad that it in the network via wireless but both are not on all the time.

The router is an AT&T Netgear 7550. The routers security setting is WPA2-PSK (AES)

When I search for networks on my laptop I seethe name of my network with Padlock locked.

My questions are:

What are the best security setting for my wireless network?

How can I tell is someone is riding my network with out my permission?

Thanks

[evasive]

If that device has a webinterface which lists the MAC addresses of the devices that got an IP address through DHCP then you are in luck.

WPA2-PSK is the best security that most SOHO routers have to offer. What you could do is hide the SSID so it's not visible and you really need to enter the network name manually when you want to connect.

[Mark H]

Most routers have MAC Address Filtering. This allows or denies specific MAC addresses access to the network. For a while, I had mine set to allow specific MAC addresses. You could see my network, maybe even know the pass code, but if your MAC address isn't on the list, no connection.

[Roach412]

Most routers have MAC Address Filtering

i used this method while running my networks in college. it'd be a little more annoying now with guests/etc. also, a million new devices or changed devices(we had 9 guys living in a house at one time) coming and going would be annoying to manage...

but, it's extremely effective. especially when paird with a non-broadcasing SSID.

-Roach

[c327]

Thanks for the comments.

I see that there are 11 channels plus automatic (currently set to channel 6). Is one better than the other? What would be the best one to use?

Do I have to name my network in the SSID space or can I leave it blank and if I do either what will be the result as far as connecting to the network is concerned?

On my AT&T (Netgear) router/modem model 7550 there is a property set up page under I.P. Connection & Traffic Check. Listed there is a specific check called Continuity Check To Grd BR. This specific check failed but yet my internet service seems to work fine with a consistant download speed of around 5.5 Mbps with a 6.0 DSL wired service and only slightly lower on my wireless laptop. Will someone explain to me what is with the Failed test mentioned here?

Thanks

[c327]

error. sorry folks.

[Karlsweldt]

As to "Continuity Check To Grd BR" is actually "6RD".
That is a protocol for use of IPv6 networks over existing IPv4 infrastructure.
Windows sometimes finds errors of proper function.. the "enhance every feature" nuisance.
http://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc5969
As to "channel choice", that is a feature where the least used channel or frequency in that area is best for use. The "auto" setting is best.

[c327]

As to "Continuity Check To Grd BR" is actually "6RD".
That is a protocol for use of IPv6 networks over existing IPv4 infrastructure.
Windows sometimes finds errors of proper function.. the "enhance every feature" nuisance.
http://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc5969
As to "channel choice", that is a feature where the least used channel or frequency in that area is best for use. The "auto" setting is best.

OK Thank you, it looked like a G, so 6RD it is, So based on what you say I just should disregard that Fail notice.

Would you please comment on my other two concerns.
Thanks

[Roach412]

i would leave the channel as auto - it'll find the most effective channel when you reboot it then. other wifi signals, or other electrical interference.

you do need to provide an SSID in order to connect. you can have it not broadcast, but you still need to have a name for the network in order to search/find it.

-Roach