DGFV338 ProSafe Wireless ADSL Modem VPN Firewall Router Reference Manual
3-2
Wireless Configuration
v1.0, May 2008
Understanding the Wireless Security Features
Unlike wired network data, your wireless data transmissions can extend beyond your walls and
can be received by anyone with a compatible adapter. For this reason, use the security features of
your wireless equipment. The wireless firewall provides highly effective security features which
are covered in detail in this chapter.
The DGFV338 provides several features to enhance the security of your wireless network:
•
Restrict access to your network based on MAC address.
If you configure a list of the MAC
addresses of trusted PCs, the DGFV338 can allow only those trusted PCs to join your wireless
network. This restriction adds an obstacle against intruders joining your network, but does not
prevent them from eavesdropping on your wireless data.
•
Turn off the broadcast of the wireless network name (SSID).
The service set identifier
(SSID) is a name you give to your wireless network to allow wireless devices to identify your
network among any other wireless networks in the area. If you disable broadcast of the SSID,
only devices that already know the correct SSID can connect. This defeats the wireless
network “discovery” feature of some products, such as Windows XP, although a determined
wireless eavesdropper can learn the SSID by monitoring your wireless data.
•
Encrypt Your Data.
Use one of these data encryption methods:
Note:
Indoors, computers can connect to wireless networks at ranges of 300 feet or more.
Such distances allow others outside of your area to access your network.
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DGFV338
