Powerline adaptors- ONE SOLUTION for a Secured Network

Use built-in security features for safer wireless networks: experts
By Johnson Choo, Channel NewsAsia


SINGAPORE : While Singapore is planning on rolling out a nationwide wireless network, the concept of wireless Internet access is not new for many.

But industry players say many wireless networks are not properly set up, and as a result, security may be compromised.

Setting up a broadband router or modem is really simple: plug a phone line, or cable connection into the device, and you are ready to surf.

While this makes Internet access convenient, it is a threat to data security.

Experts say users should utilise the security features available on wireless routers to prevent unauthorised access.

The most common method is the use of an encryption key; you key in a password that will scramble your data.

But a good hacker may still be able to hack into your network.

Professionals prefer to use MAC address filtering, in which the unique physical ID number of each wireless device is entered into the system.

MAC addresses are usually found on the device itself.

Said Justin Chiah, product marketing director at Aztech, "With MAC address filtering, only the address that is associated can access the wireless network. Nobody else actually access your network this way."

However, there is a limit to using wireless routers in a building.

Structures like pillars and walls in the house will affect how the wifi network will work.

As you move from room to room, you will get a weakened or intermittent signal.

One solution is to use devices called powerline adaptors.

Instead of laying expensive fibre optic cables around the house, a pair of these adaptors will convert the power grid into a secure wired network.

Said Mr Chiah, "The power grid within the house provides you the transmission medium as well as the power source. But the actual connection from the PC to the power adaptor is through an ethernet cable, so that ensures that there's no power going through all the way to your PC."

These adaptors also come with a wireless option, so every power socket in the house can be converted into a wireless access point.

This wireless extension plug is really convenient to use, but it will only be available in stores in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong from August. - CNA /ct





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