Public W--Fi exposure.As convenient as free Wi-Fi and publicly available computers may be at, say, a public library or café, using them can leave you and your personal information exposed. Public computers might be infected with spyware and other types of malware designed to track your movements online and harvest your passwords.

     The same is true of open Wi-Fi networks. Cyberthieves may set up rogue Wi-Fi networks that look legitimate (for instance, one may be named for the café that you're visiting) but enable the crooks to collect your personal information. Even legitimate open Wi-Fi networks may leave you vulnerable. For an example, look no further than the Firesheep plug-in for Firefox, which allows just about anyone to hijack log-in sessions for various social networks.

    Sometimes, you may have no choice but to use a public computer or Wi-Fi network. When you do, don't use it to check your e-mail or social network accounts, conduct online banking, or perform any other action that entails logging in to a site. If you have access to a VPN, use it.

     The Internet is an ever present threat to your computer. Even harmlessly browsing through sites may get your computer affected with a virus or spyware without you even knowing it. As many dangers as there may be out there, you can easily protect yourself by taking a few simple steps.

Routers and Firewalls

     First of all, if you don't already have a router, it is recommended that you go and get one, even if you only have one computer in your home. A Router acts as the best kind of firewall, a hardware firewall. It protects you from all kinds of viruses and keeps your information safe. Hackers who want to gain access to your computer who may try to port scan your computer. High end routers may be able to completely block these scans or at least slow the hacker down. The majority of hackers on the Internet do not want to waste time trying to get through a router, and would rather move onto another victim.

     Apart from hardware firewalls, there are also lots of software that is available for you to install free of charge. Many of the smaller companies provide just as good protection from threats as large brand names such as Norton or Sophos.

     The four main types of programs that you will need to protect your computer are an active virus scanner, a firewall, a spyware scanner, and a general anti-virus program.

Virus Scanners

     An active virus scanner is a virus scanner than runs in the background whenever your computer is running. These programs tend to take up very little memory because they only run quick scans of any and every file. A2 Guard or ASquared is a highly recommended program. It scans files in the background and does not compromise your CPU's resources in doing so.
Software Firewalls

     A firewall is something that prevents intrusions into your computer. There are many versions available on the Internet, so you will be able to find lots of a free firewalls to download. One highly recommended firewall is ZoneAlarm. The free firewall provides basic protection from intrusions. ZoneAlarm free does not come with an anti virus that would normally come with the retail version. Therefore you will have to install other programs with it.

Spyware Scanners

     A spyware scanner is something that scans for spyware. You only need to run this program every month or so. The easiest program to use, as well as being free, is Ad-Aware.

     Spyware is usually installed when you visit a website that has infected cookies. Using the program A2 as described above, you can choose whether to reject these cookies anytime the program suspects something. 

This is highly recommended.

Anti-Virus

     A general anti virus is a program that scans for viruses and either deletes or quarantines them. A favorite among computer users is the freeware AVG. It thoroughly scans files when performing a scan and is very reliable.

     Armed with these programs, you should have no trouble browsing through sites on the Internet.

WiFi or Wireless Fidelity was first used commercially in August 1999. 802.11 is the technical code for the WiFi protocol. The term ‘WiFi’ is often used as a synonym for IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 technology.

Many people, especially techies use WiFi to connect to the Internet. By allowing this access almost everyone can share, communicate and transact business using the net without plugging a single cord.

What equipment is needed?

1. Cable or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modem

Have a high speed modem for faster internet access.

2. Wireless router

A wireless router or WAP (  Wireless Access Point ) acts as a passageway to the main internet access point. It has various ports wherein the modem is plugged in and distributes internet access to multiple users through its antenna.

3. Wireless enabled gadgets such as mobile phones and laptops

Latest laptop models have built in wireless cards making it WiFi ready but in older models you would have to use a wireless adapter. This adapter. This adapter emits radio signals that are needed in wireless networking.

How does WiFi work?

           

To connect to a WiFi netwoe\rk, you must first find a hotspot. A hotspot or service is a location where you can find the strongest WiFi signal. The wireless signal can reach at about 300 feet and lessens as the distance between the router and the electronic device increases.

A WiFi connection functions through a wireless router, which is usually connected to a DSL or cable Internet connection. The router’s antennas will send-off radio signals while the wireless cards or adapters of cellphones, laptops and other similar devices receive it. the router or WAP serves as a bridge that ties a group of  wireless devices to a wired Local Area Network, or LAN connection. Once connected, users can freely surf the Internet, play games and share files and information. The process also works in reverse with the router receiving information from the Internet, translating it into a radio signal and sending it to the computer’s wireless adapter.

The average range of a signal is 300 feet. The connection speed slows down as the distance between the computer and the router increases. Walls and other physical barriers present in the area may impede the flow of radio waves.

Why is WiFi essential?

WiFi provides mobility to your life. You can move from one place to another without being disconnected to the network. Plus, you can access the Internet without having too many cables and wires scattered around your workplace or while shopping in the mall.

WiFi is best suited for individuals who are always on-the-go. Since WiFi is gradually becoming ubiquitous, users can already work, be entertained, and be informed everywhere and anytime they please. However, it also has its drawbacks. WiFi network is very sensitive to signal strength that you must ensure all computers and gadgets receive adequate signal strength at all times otherwise, connection will terminate. It is also affected by climatic conditions such as thunderstorms.

Helpful Tips

1. Secure your WiFi connection using WPA (WiFi Protected Area).

WPA is a program developed by the WiFi Alliance to prevent hackers and Internet crimes from happening. When using WiFi, refrain from entering sensitive data such as bank account information and social security numbers.

2. Do not connect to an unknown or unsecured wireless network.

Hackers often target travelers by creating replicas of existing legal networks or websites of airlines and hotels. Always use the access keys provided by the airline or hotel to ensure that you are protected.

3. Be a responsible internet user.

Avoid entering and downloading from unsecured websites. Most viruses come from obscene sites and freeware software. Remember to disconnect to wireless network after use.