Wireless networking + security

[Lazgoat]

I've just bought a bargain Wireless ADSL router and PCI card from Ebuyer for my Shuttle build. Its all gone together perfectly and the Wireless connection setup in less than 2 min!
BUT, I have the option now to secure the wireless connection on the Shuttle using the software that came with the PCI card. The options I have are:
None, WEP, WPA2 and Any WPA. Which is best and why?

Will this stop my neighbours hijacking my ADSL broadband or do I have to go through the Router for that?

Thanks.

[Lazgoat]

Ah! On the router, under Wireless Security there are other options: None, WEP, 802.1x and WPA. I'm guessing this will secure the Router and the security on the PC will secure it against Internet Connection Sharing?

[Áedán]

You probably want WPA-PSK (Wi-Fi Protected Access - Pre Shared Key). None is not good for obvious reasons, WEP is relatively easy to break, and 802.1x requires additional servers but provides the best security.

You have to set the WPA-PSK settings on BOTH the router AND the clients. Once you set the WPA-PSK setting on the router, any wireless clients you have will be unable to communicate until you change their settings (and vise versa). For that reason, I'd recommend using a wired PC to configure the router if you can. Now you can see why you need the settings on both ends!

The PSK (sometimes called a password) should be over eight characters long - in fact, the longer the better, but you do need to be able to remember it.

This should give you a reasonable level of security. It's not going to stop someone who's totally determined, but then again, they'd probably be happy to break into your house anyway!

[Lazgoat]

Thanks Aedan, I'll look into it tonight and try to get it sorted.

[Lazgoat]

Hi Aedan, I'm trying to set up the WEP PSK security on a DLink-G604T ADSL modem Router. I've gone though it all, I think, and when I click Apply I get the message "Privacy Type is set to WPA. Multiple SSID support will be disabled".
The network is not secure as it shows up as Unsecured if I view all available wireless networks.

Any idea whats wrong?

[calgar]

ok, i should point out that none of that will stop anyone but idle passers by, the only real way to secure your network is to surround your house in a faraday(sp?) cage

[Lazgoat]

Ok, got it sorted out in the end, I forgot to "save all the new settings" and reboot the router after making the security settings! DOH!

[Áedán]

Originally Posted by calgar

ok, i should point out that none of that will stop anyone but idle passers by, the only real way to secure your network is to surround your house in a faraday(sp?) cage

Not really true. Running WPA with certificates does stop a whole heck of a lot. Unless you want to spend years trying to break a key that gets changed at regular intervals, it's not worth the hassle.

[Lazgoat]

Ok, may have a few problems and may need your help again.
The Shuttle is positioned in a corner with about 4in to the rear and to the left of the case. The right is the TFT monitor and plug sockets and wireless keyboard and mouse (logitech LX300)
Now, the modem is located next to the phone socket in another room about 5m away in a straight line, but in the way are about walls and the sofa, behind which is the modem.

The Wireless PCI card has its own software which scans for wireless networks. It picks up a few other wireless networks in the area but the signal strengh for our network goes from Good, to excellent to poor to nothing in a matter of seconds as it tries to connect to it. Then after about 3-5 min it will connect, but if the user logs off and another user logs in, then the same thing happens. Is this usual for wireless networks? We tried moving the modem but it made very little difference. The shuttle is in a tight space, and I doubt that can change! Due to the layout of things.
Any advice?