Listed below are the top 5 tips IT professionals should take to enhance wireless network security.
1. Encryption. There are many different types of encryption methods used to secure wireless networks. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is the oldest and least preferred. Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) is newer and offers better protection. WPA2 is the newest and should be used if possible. Configure Virtual Private Network (VPN) access for users connecting to corporate systems.2. Firewalls. Segment the wireless network from your in-house wired network. Use firewalls to restrict traffic to and from the internal network. Configure user devices so firewalls are turned on and actively protect applications and data.
3. Manual connection. Configure portable devices such as laptops and handhelds so that they do not automatically connect to wireless networks. A manual process helps ensure that the device connects to the appropriate wireless network.
4. Patch management. Ensure device operating system, application, and security protection software is patched and up-to-date. Ensure browsers and updates to third party software packages are applied in a timely manner. Critical updates should be tested and applied as soon as possible.
5. Incident management. Prepare a formal Incident Response Plan and educate users to inform the appropriate personnel if they believe they logged into the wrong network, sensitive information such as their ID/password was compromised, their device was lost or stolen, etc. (more)
