Wireless Networking Thornbury U3A Computer Club Mike Farquhar 2010

‘Wireless networking’ means… Security update Wireless Networking Questions

Security update

Threats –Via - mainly phishing –When surfing – trojan horses Tools –Antivirus and Antispyware programs What to do before things go wrong What to do when things go wrong

Use your Firewall. Use Microsoft Update to keep your PC up to date with security alerts. Use the anti-phishing and pop-up-blocker facilities of Internet Explorer Install, keep up to date, and regularly use anti-virus software and anti-spyware software Let your AV and AS software scan at least weekly. Note that your computer must be on to allow scanning. Back up your data – even if you just copy it to a memory stick! Security update What to do before things go wrong

Update and Run your Anti-Virus and Anti- Spyware program If you can’t do this under a normal startup try doing it in “safe mode”. (press F8 repeatedly when the PC starts) If this has not sorted the problem, call for help from someone who knows what they are doing. Security update What to do after things go wrong

PC Advisor magazine has a free eMagazine called “PC Security Advisor 2010” – read it here:here Security update Microsoft now has a free security suite - “Microsoft Security Essentials”. It has been getting very good reviews. Read about it and download it here.here It is supported under Windows XP, Vista and 7 in both 32 and 64 bit. I am using it (replacing AVG 9 FREE) so far it looks good and appears competent.

Wireless Networking

Why do we need a wireless network? Sharing a printer Sharing pictures and other files Share Cameras Broadband connections Allows us to use our laptop on the sofa, in the kitchen, or even in the garden!

Wireless Networking What equipment do we need to make a wireless network? wireless router wireless network card

Wireless Networking The ROUTER Routers come in two basic types. Which type you need depends upon whether your internet connection is over the telephone system (an ADSL MODEM) or via Virgin Media’s cable system (a CABLE MODEM). What’s the cheapest way to get a wireless router? Just ask your ISP for one. It will be free.

Wireless Networking The NETWORK CARD Wireless Network cards come in many basic types. Internal ones are inside the pc or laptop. External ones plug in to various types of socket, e.g. USB or PC card. If you have a laptop it will already have a wireless network card in it.

Wireless Networking Connecting and Commissioning a router provided by your ISP There will be no commissioning to do – just connect it up. (mains and telephone line) Run the CD if provided Turn on your laptop and ensure the Wireless LAN is active Your network card will find your router and ask for the security code (written on the router)

Wireless Networking Connecting/Commissioning other routers You need to connect the router BY A CABLE to a PC. Following the instructions supplied with the router enter the admin menus and set the network logon details as provided by your ISP. Set the SSID to anything you want Set the wireless security to WPA or WPA2. Set a security code Exit the Admin menu Unplug the network cable. Turn on your laptop and ensure the Wireless LAN is active Your network card will find your router and ask for the security code (as set earlier)

Wireless Networking What can we connect to the wireless network? Printers There are several good quality wireless network capable printers on the market. HP Deskjet 4580 Multifunctional Inkjet Printer £ free P&P from PC World Print and Scan across the network !!

Wireless Networking What can we connect to the wireless network? Cameras An independent wireless camera (security purposes?)

Wireless Networking What can go wrong… Poor signal quality in old buildings with thick walls The latest standard of Wireless networking is much better – but still not good enough. One solution is to use PowerLine Adapters.

Wireless Networking What can go wrong… Interference from other devices using the same frequencies. This is characterised by the signal dropping out randomly. Seek help to use a tool such as NetStumbler. This will show you who is transmitting on what frequencies – you can then change the channel(s) that the router uses.

Questions