How do I stop a neighbor from using my wireless network!?

Question

I suspect a neighbor may be using my wireless network, but I am fairly new to the internet and I don't know how to find out or stop it.

I noticed one of my neighbors who doesn't have internet has been on myspace reg. now (she used to use my computer to get on) I went on vacation for a few days and all of a my speed has slowed down dramatically! I pay good money for my high speed and I don't want to share it or be responsible for someone possibly wreaking havoc with viruses.

Please tell me in plain English, how to make it impossible to get in my wireless. I would appreciate it so much.

Answer 1

You may first need to read over setting up a router to have a better understanding of what they do.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/homen...

When you log into your router, click the wireless option, then enable the WPA security. Then enter a security password.

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/wirel...

Answer 2

You will need to add WPA security. You can do this in the security settings for your router. Simply log into your router and add a security key. WPA is much stronger than WEP.

If your unsure how to log into your router it would be helpful if you post which router your using. Typically you log into your router in a web browser by typing your Default Gateway in the address bar. To find out your Default Gateway, open the command prompt and type ipconfig /all

Most home routers have an IP address near the beginning of your particular subnet such as http://192.168.1.1 or something very similiar (look at your router's instruction manual or locate the IP address by searching the router model on the manufacturer's website). Different routers have different default username/password combinations, which you will definitely need to look up documentation for. Some do accept blank usernames and/or passwords, depending on the model.

Answer 3

as everyone else has pointed out, add a password to it.  That locks the door.  

but I would also suggest 2 other steps to help secure it.  First change your ssid to something other than the factory default.  The SSID is the "name" of your router.  Change it to anything else (like myhomewifi).

Next configure your router to NOT broadcast your SSID.

Essentially what this does is "hide" the door to your wifi.  So first they have to find your door, then they need a password to unlock it.

keep in mind, once you hide your SSID, you'll have to set up your wireless to connection to look for it as well, othewise your computer won't find it either.

so in short

1. change your SSID

2. stop broadcasting your SSID

3. add password protection

now, someone will have to specifically look for your router and then if they find it, they'll still have to enter a password to gain access to your connection

Answer 4

Samuel was 100% correct, but you can also (depending on what router you are using) choose the option to ONLY allow the mac addresses that you choose (or input rather).