Should I turn on what is federal information processing standards?

In Windows 7, using Wireless connection to my Router, I have an ability to select "Enable federal information processing standards (FIPS) compliance for this network".

I selected it and it reconnected, but what exactly does it do, and will it make my connection more secure or less secure?

 

You should only use it if you do business with the government or other affiliated agencies that require the use of FIPS, Or if you use software that requires FIPS for it to run properly.

Here is a bit more information on FIPS:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/811833

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Information_Processing_Standard

If I were you, I wouldn't enable that feature without knowing it's proper functionality. And, if you don't mind me asking...What company makes your router?

 

Billion Router.

So in other words, you don't completely understand or know what it does do or not do, and if I can turn it on or not?

I must confess, even after reading those links, I don't really understand

 

I do know that government agencies use them, as well as affiliated agencies only. I have never heard of anyone using this inside the home, for personal advantage. Basing it off those factors alone, I wouldn't enable it for me...That is all I am saying.

By the way I read it, I see no reason to use it for home use.

 

Alright here is an example. Let's say you work for the government, you have what you call a CAC card with all your government affiliated info on it. This CAC card is used to gain access to government buildings, machines, etc. This uses some form of FIPS for it to function.

I just called up a family member of mine, who works for the government and actually knows what FIPS is. This is one of the examples he just gave me.

I figured, I should talk to someone who knows more than I do.

 

Thank you RADEON0101

 

No Problem