How to Stop Outsiders From Using Bandwidth

Your Internet connection can be more secure.

Internet bandwidth is the amount of data that you use with your Internet service. Some Internet providers limit that amount of bandwidth within a given time frame. Given this limitation, as well as security concerns, it's in your best interest to stop outsiders from accessing your network and using your bandwidth. Otherwise, you could end up paying more for your Internet service or having your network compromised.

Instructions

1. Change your network settings so that your Wired Equivalent Privacy, or WEP, is turned on. This might also be referred to as WPA, or Wi-Fi protected access, in the settings page. The settings page can be accessed through the control panel and Internet or networking section in most computers.

2. Create a password for your wireless network. The password should contain numbers and letters and not be something outsiders can guess easily.

3. Go to the settings for your Wi-Fi router by entering its IP address in your browser. Under wireless settings, select "Hide SSID Broadcast." This setting will hide your network from outside users so they cannot use your bandwidth.

4. Place your wireless router toward an inside interior wall of your home, not near windows, doors or outside walls. This diminishes the signal strength to outsiders looking to use your bandwidth just in case they find and hack into your network.

References

• PC World; Restrict Wireless Access; Zack Stern: December 2008
• Microsoft: Help Secure Your Wireless Network