How is my neighbour connecting to my wireless internet?

Question

And is it possible that I am connected to another neighbours wireless internet?

Heres the story. My neighbour (on the left) told me that he was connecting to my other neighbours internet and that he knew it was theres because it was names "MS HOME" and MS I there initials. The other day I was looking on my computer and the thing that I am connected to is called MS HOME but I don’t remember calling it that! Is it possible my computer connected to my neighbours internet without me doing anything? I have my own wireless connected directly into my computer.

When I go into Network connections on my computer there are several different things on there but only 1 will connect (cant give more details, im not on my computer right now!)

Answer 1

If the signal is strong enough and you don't have any security configured its not hard for any one to connect to your wireless router.

j

Answer 2

Anyone can connect to a wireless network that is open without encryption.  Also even if it does have encryption any wireless network will be visible to wireless users nearby unless you set it up to be invisible.

Most newer wireless routers have an option for SSID invisibility.  Once set, it requires anyone who connects to know the network name. You actually have to type it in before you can even try to connect.  This provides some level of security because the average user (your neighbors) will not freeload a wireless network that they can't see by default.

As far as encryption you should use the strongest type that your devices support.   In general WPA2 is the best followed by WPA then WEP. Set a password 6 or more characters long with at least one capital letter and one number to keep people from breaking in easily.

Remember, no network is 100% secure.  You just need to make your network more secure than your neighbor so that you aren't a target.  SSID invisibility and WPA2 encryption is a good combo that will ward off 99.9% of free loaders.  If you need help on setting this up, either edit your question to include your wireless router model # or ask a new question and include that info.

Hope that helps.