Step-by-Step Wireless Network Security for Vista

Protect your wireless network from hackers using security settings.

When you connect home computers using a wireless router, your network isn't protected by a secure password or firewall by default. If left without a password, anyone can connect to your network. Decrease the chance of hackers stealing your information by protecting the wireless network with security keys and the Windows Firewall. Once you set up wireless network security, only people who know the network's password can gain access to the wireless router home network.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" menu button. Click the "Control Panel" link.

2. Click "Network and Internet." Double-click the "Network and Sharing Center" icon to start the program.

3. Click "Set up a connection or network" from the sidebar on the left side of the window. Click "Set up a wireless router or access point." Follow the on-screen directions to connect to your wireless router. When prompted, create a unique password for your network. Click "Finish" when the wireless network security setup program is complete.

4. Click "Security" from the Control Panel. Double-click the "Windows Firewall" icon.

5. Click "Turn Windows Firewall on or off." Click "On (recommended)" if it isn't already selected. Click the "OK" button to save these settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick a wireless router security key with multiple letters and numbers to make it harder for hackers to figure out the password.

References

• Microsoft Windows: Set Up a Security Key for a Wireless Network
• Microsoft Windows: Turn Windows Firewall On or Off