Businesses of all sizes are increasingly relying on wireless technologies to connect devices, machines, and people. However, as the number of wireless-enabled devices and networks grows, so do the risks associated with them.
To help businesses keep their wireless networks safe, we’ve compiled a list of 19 best practices for business wireless network security.
Limit access to the wireless network to authorized users only
It is important to limit access to your wireless network to authorized users only. One way to do this is to use MAC filtering. MAC filtering is a process of allowing only devices with specific MAC addresses to connect to your network.
Another way to limit access is to use a cloud radius. A RADIUS server is a remote server that authenticates users before they are allowed to connect to your network.
Encrypt all data that is transmitted over the wireless network
Encryption is probably the most important thing you can do for business wireless network security because it is what makes data unreadable to anyone who does not have the encryption key. There are a couple of different types of encryption that you can use, but the most common are WEP and WPA.
Also, think about using a VPN to encrypt all of the data that is transmitted over the network, not just the data that is transmitted wirelessly. A VPN can add an extra layer of security, and it is relatively easy to set up. And don’t forget to use software that protects the data housed on it. For example, OnPay not only streamlines your payroll and HR tasks, but it also does so in a secure, encrypted environment.
Use a strong password for your wireless network
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people use the same passwords for everything and then wonder why their networks are not secure.
When it comes to your business wireless network secThis remote server can beurity, you should use a strong password that is at least eight characters long. Also, keep in mind to include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It is also important to have a regular password change schedule so that your password does not become compromised.
Change the default SSID
The SSID is the name of your wireless network, and by default, most routers come with a generic SSID such as “Linksys” or “NETGEAR.” If you don’t change the default SSID, it is easy for someone to figure out what kind of router you have and then look up the default password. Once they have your password, they can access your network and all of the data on it.
Use MAC filtering
MAC filtering is a way to limit access to your wireless network by specific MAC addresses. MAC addresses are unique to each device, so by only allowing devices with specific MAC addresses to connect to your network, you can greatly reduce the chances of someone unauthorized accessing your network.
This is one of the absolute best ways to make sure that your business wireless network security is alright.
Turn off SSID broadcasting
By default, most routers broadcast the SSID, which means that anyone within range can see the name of your network. If you turn off SSID broadcasting, your network will not show up when people are scanning for available networks.
This may seem like a good way to keep people from connecting to your network, but it can actually make it more difficult for you because you will need to manually connect each device to the network.
Keep your router firmware up to date
One of the most important things you can do for business wireless network security is to keep your router’s firmware up to date. Firmware is the software that is installed on your router, and it is what controls the router’s functions.
Manufacturers regularly release updates to the firmware to fix bugs and add new features. However, if you don’t keep your firmware up to date, you could be missing out on important security fixes.
Use a firewall
A firewall is a piece of software that helps to protect your network from outside attacks. It works by blocking incoming traffic that is not authorized and by allowing outgoing traffic only from authorized sources. A firewall can be a hardware device that is installed between your router and the internet or it can be software that is installed on your router.
Configure your wireless security settings
When you set up your wireless router, you will need to choose a security protocol. The two most common protocols are WEP and WPA.
- WEP is an older protocol that is not as secure as WPA, so it is important to choose WPA if it is available.
- WPA stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access, and it uses 128-bit encryption to protect your data.
Use a strong password for the administrator account
The administrator account is the account that is used to manage your router. This account has full access to the router’s settings, so it is important to choose a strong password for this account.
A strong password should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. A good password randomizer is a good tool to keep bookmarked for this purpose.
Use a guest network
If you have visitors who need to use your wireless network, you can set up a guest network for them. A guest network is a separate wireless network that is isolated from your main network. This isolation prevents guests from accessing your private data and also helps to protect your network from any malicious software that they may have on their devices.
Keep up-to-date on the latest security threats
It is important to keep up-to-date on the latest security threats. There are many resources available that can help you to stay informed about the latest threats. Additionally, you should subscribe to security mailing lists and RSS feeds to receive timely updates on new threats. Read as much as you can from leading cybersecurity publications.
You might even consider hiring a cybersecurity consultant to come in and audit your systems on a regular basis.
Use VPN
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a way to encrypt your data and tunnel it through the internet to a remote server. This remote server can be hosted in a sustainable data center located anywhere in the world and acts as a middleman between you and the internet. By using a VPN, you can ensure that all of your data is encrypted and that your traffic is not being monitored. Companies also use the most secured virtual phone number software to secure business phone communication between their employees and international clients.
Never transmit sensitive or confidential information unencrypted
If you are transmitting sensitive or confidential information, it is important to make sure that the data is encrypted. Encryption is a process of transforming data into a code that can only be decrypted by someone who has the key.
There are many different encryption algorithms that can be used, and you should choose one that is appropriate for the level of security that you need.
Require employees to use strong passwords for their workstations and laptops
If you have employees who need to access your network, you should require them to use strong passwords for their workstations and laptops. A strong password should be at least eight characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Additionally, make sure that employees are not accessing work networks from unsecured wireless networks in places like airports or cafes. This is especially important if you have a large disbursed remote workforce.
Educate employees about the importance of wireless network security
It is important to educate your employees about the importance of wireless network security. Employees should understand the risks of using unsecured wireless networks and the steps that they can take to protect themselves. Additionally, employees should know not to transmit sensitive or confidential information over an unsecured wireless network.
Have a written security policy in place
It is important to have a written security policy in place that covers the use of wireless networks. This policy should cover the acceptable use of wireless networks, the required level of security, and the consequences for violating the policy. You should require your employees to sign this policy before you allow them to access your wireless network.
Regularly test the network for vulnerabilities
It is important to regularly test your network for vulnerabilities. There are many tools available that you can use to perform a security audit of your network. These audit tools can help you to identify any weaknesses in your system and take steps to correct them. Additionally, you should keep up-to-date on the latest security threats and take steps to protect your network from these threats.
Have a plan in place for responding to security breaches
If a security breach does occur, it is important to have a plan in place for responding to the incident. This plan should include steps for containment, investigation, and recovery. Additionally, you should have a communications plan in place so that you can quickly notify affected parties of the security breach.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best practices that you should follow to secure your wireless network. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your network is safe from intruders and unauthorized users. Additionally, you can help to protect your data and keep your confidential information safe. Remember, a secure wireless network is a critical part of any business. Don’t take chances with your security. Implement these best practices today.