Wifi security and laptops ?

Hi; I have this question which is bugging me. I have a friend who just bought a brand new laptop within which can be found a wireless access card. Very good, but what happens when one starts up such a laptop in a wireless LAN environment? If the laptop is not properly configured to refuse wireless connections, does it stand the chance to be invaded by other LAN users or does the inbound firewall deny any such access?

He asked me this question and I realized I had no idea

Thanks for any answer from wireless specialists, and apologies to be such an ignorant on this matter.

Cheers

 

WinXP SP2 firewall can protect the inbound part of the wireless connection. Just select the WinXP firewall in control panel and make sure the wireless connection is setup for the firewall and using no exceptions when on a non-trusted network.

 

Doesn't the firewall and security protection work as well with WIFI as with wire?
I am under the impression that you are as secure with wireless as with wired.

Jerry

 

not exactly. users with wireless access need to take addition precautions and enable encryption (wep/wpa) to prevent outside users from leeching ur internet or accessing ur personal files.

 

So is it true that if you find a hot spot for your WIFI you are in danger using it? Is the signal from your machine to the router, or whatever receives your signal and passes it, intercepted or hacked and your passwords and such can be discovered?

I know some businesses have the wireless set up. I was in Arby's the other day, and they have wireless so that you can use it while there. Is that not secure, and should not be used?

Thanks,
Jerry

 

if i person uses a network sniffer, then he/she can possibly peek at ur email, passwords, and stuff. as for hotspots, im not sure. neways heres a few links about wi-fi security.

How to Secure Your Wireless Home Network with Windows XP
Securing your Wi-Fi Connection on the Road
Ten Top Tips For Mobile Security

 

Thanks, I'll take a look. I am about to travel to my sister's and since she does not have a computer I will see if there is a hotspot close.
If not I have a dial up ISP.

Best,
Jerry

 

Tweaking a bit on the laptop, I found there's a way to deactivate the wifi card on Windows XP. Another way is probably to deactivate all the internet options of the card, i.e. tcp/ip, M$ printer sharing, and so on. More to the point might be to completely uninstall the card pilots when going on the road, and then reinstalling when back home !?
Dunno.

 

Hi, dylanfan

No need to go to that. just click on the connection and disable it. [nothing can see it then]

Take Care,
TheQuest

 

Thanks, Cheers

 

My Toshiba laptop has a switch which turns WIFI off.
Jerry