How Do You Lock a Wireless Internet?

Wireless Internet access is provided by a wireless router that allows access via radio signals. Unfortunately, since the connection is wireless, anyone within range with a wireless network adapter installed in their computer can pirate your signal and access the Internet with your router. Most routers come from the factory with generic security settings. To lock your wireless Internet connection you need to change these settings.

Things You'll Need

• Router owner's manual

Instructions

1. Open your wireless router's set-up page. Refer to your owner's manual for the address of your router, then enter this address into your browser. Typically, a router will come from the factory with a generic user name and password. Your owner's manual will provide this information.

2. Open the wireless security page within your router's admin area. Every router is a little different, but they all have security capability.

3. Enter a user name and password of your choosing into the form fields provided. Record this information in a safe place. You will need it to access your router control panel in the future.

4. Enable encryption on your router. You can either enter a pass phrase of your choosing or have the system generate one for you. A system-generated phrase is usually more secure because it is more random and less easy to guess. Record this information and keep it in a safe place. Save your settings.

5. Attempt to connect to your wireless router. You will be prompted for your pass phrase. Enter the phrase, check the box to save your pass phrase and apply your settings. Your wireless connection is now locked to any other machine except yours.

References

• Lock Down a Wireless Access Point
• How to Lock Down Your Wireless Network