How secure are wireless networks?

Question

I recently got a laptop, and when I'm using wireless internet, I worry that someone might be intercepting the signal, and either hacking into my computer or just gathering all the information I send. This worries me because I obviously don't want to get a virus or something on my computer, or for any of the data to be deleted or whatever, but I'm also afraid that if I do any online banking or something else of importance, someone would be able to intercept the wireless signal and get my password and stuff. Can that stuff happen? If so, how often does it happen? Also, am I still in danger using a wireless network that requires a password? I would very much appreciate a thorough and complete answer. I just want to know what risks there are, and what I can do to avoid those risks. Thanks

Answer 1

Wireless networks are about as secure as leaving the front door of your house, not only unlocked but thrown completely wide open!!!   You have reason to worry because people can be intercepting your signal.  You cannot get a virus unless you download it to  your computer so you safe on that front.

Answer 2

My wireless is very secure.

Here is what I setup:

WPA2 Personal authentication protocol

AES encryption

MAC filtering

Changed SSID to what I want.

disabled SSID broadcast.

If you can do that, it is plenty secure.

There is another technology called powerline.  I am not going with powerline because I use a laptop for a wireless client.  If I ever buy an xbox or a desktop in a different room than my router, I will go powerline.  Check out these links:

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7390_1-6274537-...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqLblMpcl...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHmeLQ8zD...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoBYr3Ezk...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HDSVo2ou...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lH-omrPFb...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductLis...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...

I recommend wireless for laptops and hand held devices that need the ultimate portability.  I recommend powerline for desktops and game consoles like the xbox and playstation.

Answer 3

If you are using your WIFI for internet only, then all anyone can see is the internet.  If, on the other hand you have a home network set up, then that would be visible too.  To correct this just access your routers control software and set up WAP encryption.  After you have installed the WAP KEY into your router you will need to install it into your WIFI'd computer.  After this is done the only computer that will be able to see your signal will be yours and yours along.