A wireless network is convenient and can be set up in minutes; however, an unsecured wireless network can serve as an open internet connection to anyone nearby. Computers on the network would be susceptible to unauthorized access, and data sent on the wireless network, including passwords, could be stolen.

Here is a list of wireless security strategies. No one item will simply secure the wireless network, but applying most or all will provide a layered defense approach. Some of these strategies require intermediate to advanced knowledge of routers and networking. Please consult your router or ISP support resources for assistance or additional help.

• Change the default Admin password and user name of your wireless access point.
• Turn on WPA / WEP Encryption.
  • Use WAP or WAP2 if your access point and computers can support that level of encryption. WEP is better than nothing, but WEP is susceptible to hacking and the key being decrypted.
• Change the default name of your wireless network (SSID).
• Enable MAC Address Filtering.
• Disable SSID broadcast.
• Assign static IP addresses to devices.
• Position the access point safely in the center of the house.
• Turn off your wireless network during extended periods of non-use.
• Do not auto connect your computers to open wireless networks.

Please visit the About.com page for more details on these tips. As mentioned above you can consult the manual that came with your wireless access point or contact your ISP for more help to apply these security measures on your home network.