1. Why should I secure my wireless network?
2. Customize your wireless network name (SSID) and security key (WEP/WPA2)
3. Using a firewall
4. Using anti-virus software

Why should I secure my wireless network?

Securing your wireless network is arguably the single most important and least expensive way of safeguarding your connection. Leaving your wireless network unsecured is the Internet equivalent of going to bed at night and leaving your front door wide open.

An unsecured wireless connection also leaves you vulnerable trojan horse programs, viruses and a host of other unpleasant things. Unauthorized users on your Internet connection will also increase your Internet usage. This might result in additional charges on your Bell bill, not to mention the potential liability stemming from the illegal and unlawful activities they were up to and websites they visited while using your connection.

Don't let that scare you.  Securing your network is easy and all it costs is a few minutes of your time.

Customize your wireless network name (SSID) and security key (WEP/WPA2)

What is SSID and WPA2 anyway? 

SSID is simply the technical term for a network name. When you set up a wireless network, you give it a name, just like you would if you were saving a file or bringing home a new pet. You'll see the name you gave your network when you connect your computer to your wireless network later on. It simply identifies your network in case there are other wireless networks in your neighbourhood.

WPA2 is a standard for wireless security. Your WPA2 key is an alpha-numeric security code that lets authorized users access your Internet connection, while hiding the contents of your network from outsiders. It's like the admin password for your modem, but for your wireless network instead.

Where do I find my default SSID and WPA2 keys?

Your network name (SSID) and network key (WPA2) are located on a label that's either on the bottom or on the side of your Wireless-N modem (depending on how your modem is sitting). 

Tip :Write down your SSID and WPA2 key for easy reference during your setup.

How do I give my network a new name (SSID)?

For more information on modifying your modem's settings, click the model of your Bell Home Networking modem below:

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Using a firewall

Your wireless Internet modem from Bell comes with a built-in firewall. It acts like a wall around your computer to help prevent unauthorized users from accessing your wireless network. Potential intruders are constantly scanning home systems for vulnerabilities. Once your firewall is activated, it will monitor suspicious activity and automatically block unauthorized intrusions to your computer.

• You get continuous updates.
• Real-time alerts immediately tell you an intruder's IP address when hacking activity is detected.
• Detailed event logs keep track of all attempted intrusions and blocked packets.
• An active connections list shows you every application running on your computer in a single click.
• You can have a firewall exclusion list (white list).

It's important to keep in mind that while firewalls do provide protection against intrusion attempts, no firewall can detect or stop all attacks. If you're using a firewall, make sure you don't get complacent and ignore other security measures.

Additional tips on securing your home network 

Using anti-virus software

Guarding against viruses is important for all computers in your home that have access to the Internet, because the potential for a virus spreading across your network suddenly becomes very real.  Each computer that's connected to your home network, through either a wired or wireless connection, should always have up-to-date anti-virus software installed to help protect against viruses. Most anti-virus packages support automatic updates of virus definitions and this is the best way to go.

Check our help section for tips to surf safely and a list of tools you need to protect your computer - including MSN Premium and Bell Security Services, the ideal all-in-one protection for your computer.

How to surf safely and protect your computer 

Additional tips on securing your home network