How to setup and configure a wireless network in a secure manner

by | May 13, 2018 | computer science, How To, Information, Information Security, Network, Security, Tips and Tricks, Wireless

An improperly configured wireless network can present massive consequences for anyone. Consequences can range from freeloaders using your internet – to malware, data theft, and liability for illegal activity. If your network is left open and unsecured, you are practically inviting freeloaders to use your internet; you wouldn’t leave your doors open and unlocked at night, would you? You might know your neighbors well, but you do not want to be responsible for them or their kids downloading movies on your network. More dedicated hackers would prey on networks might prey on wireless networks using old weak encryption or might even try to guess weak and common passwords regardless of what kind of encryption you are using. Methods of Attack You should not only worry about those who live around you, there is a method called ‘wardriving’ that hackers use to prey on wireless networks. Wardriving involves people driving around, searching for and trying to gain access to networks while in a vehicle. Obviously open networks can be joined with ease, however there are more complex methods for more knowledgeable hackers. They use software such as Aircrack to obtain a handshake with a wireless network. The handshake is the exchange of the encrypted key between the client and the wireless router. The handshake is retrieved by sending de-authentication packets to disconnect devices from the wireless network; they then wait for a device to reconnect (most will automatically). Once a device attempts to reconnect, Aircrack captures the handshake as a .CAP file. The .CAP file can then be cracked with Aircrack using the CPU or converted to another format to...

Advantages of Wired Workplace Vs. Wireless

by | Jul 22, 2017 | Networking, Wireless

The main advantage of a wireless network over a wired one is that users can move around freely within the area of the network with their laptops, handheld devices etc and get an internet connection. Users are also able to share files and other resources with other devices that are connected to the network without having to be cabled to a port. Not having to lay lots of cables and put them through walls etc. can be a considerable advantage in terms of time and expense. It also makes it easier to add extra devices to the network, as no new cabling is needed. If you are a business such as a café, having a wireless network that is accessible to customers can bring you extra business. Customers generally love wireless networks because they are convenient. Wireless networks can sometimes handle a larger amount of users because they are not limited by a specific number of connection ports. Instant transfer of information to social media is made much easier. For instance, taking a photograph and uploading it to Facebook can generally be done much quicker with wireless technology.   The benefits of a wireless network is the lack of physical wires. A wireless network is easy to use and accommodates changes in a network without cords and cables. If you are adding new desks and employees, a wireless network is the easiest logistical choice. With the total proliferation of mobile devices in our lives (a wireless network is easier for employees to connect their personal devices to the network. An easily accessible network is paramount when considering the happiness of an...
What are the advantages of wiring workplace vs wireless?

What are the advantages of wiring workplace vs wireless?

by | May 20, 2017 | Information Security, MATC Information Technology Certificates, Security, Wireless

In computing technology, the term “wired” is used to differentiate between wireless connections and those that involve cable. A wired setup uses physical cables to transfer data between connected PCs. In a small wired network, a single router may be used to connect all the computers. Larger networks often involve multiple routers or switches that connect to each other. On of these devices typically connects to a cable modem such as T1 line or other type of Internet connection that provides Internet access to all devices connected to the network. Nowadays, most of big enterprises choose wire connection over the wireless. There are many reasons why these corporations decide to implement a wire internet. Below we will be studying some of the main advantages of the wire connection. Cost: Since companies are always trying to save money and generate more revenue, cost is one of the main reasons wire connection is an option. Cables, switches are not expensive. Wire connection is cheaper than the wireless. In another hand, Ethernet consume less power . Using Ethernet improve laptops battery life.  Reliability: Wire connection is known to be very reliable. Therefore, reliability is one of the reason why some companies choose to implement the wire Internet. Ethernet, cables, switches are reliable because manufacturers have improved their technology over several decades. Speed and Bandwidth is very high with the wire connection.  We are talking about up to 100 Mbps. Nowadays most IT professionals choose fiber optic cables for less attenuation and electromagnetic interference (EMI) Security: Wire connection is very handy if you have sensitive data that you want to secure using some software...

How to configure WI-FI connectivity and setup email on IOS devices

by | Mar 17, 2017 | Apple ACSP Certification, Mobile Devices, Network, Wireless

A/ How to configure Wireless on IOS devices                a. Connect to Wi-Fi on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch Learning how to connect your device to a Wi-Fi network, including open, secure, and hidden networks is very important.                    b. How to connect to a Wi-Fi Network From your Home screen, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Turn on Wi-Fi. Notice your device will automatically search for available Wi-Fi networks. Tap the name of the Wi-Fi network that you want to join.  After you join the network, you'll see next to the network and  in the upper-left corner of your display as shown below c. How to connect to a secure Wi-Fi Network First of all you need to understand that Secure Wi-Fi networks are password-protected and have  by their names. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, and make sure Wi-Fi is turned on. Tap the name of the secure Wi-Fi network you want to join. Enter the password for the secure Wi-Fi network, then tap Join. If you can't tap Join, the password you've entered is incorrect. After you join the network, you'll see next to the network and  in the upper-left side of your display. In case you don't know the password to the Wi-Fi network contact your network administrator. See the exhibit below to see how the secure Wi-Fi looks like.   d. Connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network Hidden networks won’t appear in your list of available networks, so you’ll need to know the exact name of the network to join it. 1. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, and...

How to prepare for your CompTia Network+ Certification and Pass Exam in Milwaukee Area

by | Mar 17, 2017 | COMPTIA certifications, computer certification, computer education, computer school, computer science, computer training, Get hired for your first IT Job, How To, Information, Information Technology Fundamentals, IT Career Symposium, MATC Information Technology Certificates, MATC information technology programs, Network, Networking, Security, Technical Diploma, Tips and Tricks, Windows, Wireless

If you are looking to get into a networking field you will want to receive the CompTia Network+ certification to get a basic understanding of networking.  This will teach you many of the industry’s standard practices and guidelines for networking as a whole.  It is important that you understand what you are supposed to learn before taking this exam.  It can be a time-consuming process even if you have a basic understanding of networking already.  It is important to try and find official documentation and practice tests for review to make sure you know the terminology they utilize.  It can be difficult to go in with knowledge you possess, as you may misunderstand questions if you do not study their way.  The following steps can help you prepare to study for the exam the correct way and become certified in no time. Before you go into the exam it is important to be well prepared, and to be well prepared you need a plan.  It is important to set goals to accomplish and to have a reasonable timeline to complete them in, do not try to rush the process.  First you should create a timeline, second you should make sure you are confident that you are meeting those timeline goals effectively.  It is okay to adjust your timeline if you see issues arise or are getting frustrated, just remember not to stray too far off.   Next execute your strategy properly, make sure that you are reviewing material that you know is on the test.  Take a practice exam if you understand basic networking already, see if any of it...

What Are The Advantages of Wired vs. Wireless Workplace?

by | Jul 6, 2016 | Wireless

With the rapid evolution into wireless connectivity, a question is posed: Is it still viable to keep the workplace hardwired, or is the technology becoming obsolete?  There are obviously advantages and disadvantages to both wired and wireless, but which reigns supreme?   Wireless Network Pros Less demanding to maintain Easier to expand BYOD policies becoming prominent Flexibility for employees Cleaner work environment Wireless Network Cons Security Issues [Network expands beyond walls of business] BYOD can become problematic Speeds are significantly slower Range is limited without several access points Wireless Networks are an awesome compliment to a hardwired network in my personal opinion.  It's pretty obvious that just having one and not the other these days will only hinder productivity and efficiency.  The biggest issue with a wireless network is security.  With all of the critical corporate information in the airwaves, it becomes a lot easier to obtain for malicious purposes.   Wired Network Pros Control from a administration perspective Increased security Increased speed Far more reliable technically speaking Cost-effective Wired Network Cons More maintenance required Cluttered infrastructure Difficult to expand Hindrance to employee flexibility Wired Networks are the legacy system that have been implemented in corporate environments for 30 plus years.  For all of that time, it's gotten the job done in an efficient, cost-effective manner. It provides unrivaled security measures, speed and reliability.  Contrasting the two systems makes it evident that they really do compliment each other's weak points.  With that being said, what is the better option? If I had to choose between the two, it would have to be a wired environment.  The pros outweigh the...