Introduction to Wi-Fi
Wifi is a wireless network technology that is used all over the world. A Wi-Fi or wireless network uses radio waves, just like cell phones, televisions, and radios. In a Wi-Fi network, computers with Wi-Fi network cards connect wirelessly to a wireless access point, or “router.” The router is connected to the Internet through a cable or DSL modem. Any user within 300 feet or so of the access point can connect to the Internet. Wi-Fi networks can be open, where anyone can access them, or closed, where users need a password to access them. An area that has public wireless access is called wireless access point.
If you’ve recently been to an airport, a Starbucks, a library, or a hotel, there’s a good chance you’ve been right in the middle of a wireless network. According to the Wi-Fi Alliance, Wi-Fi operates in more than 750,000 access points around the world. Soon, Wi-Fi networks will be so widespread that you will be able to access the Internet wirelessly from almost anywhere. Chances are, you have a wireless access point/router in your home that uses the exact same technology.
Wifi’s inherent weaknesses
Many of us assume that using a Wi-Fi network at a hotel or airport is the same as logging into our network at home or at the office. But the risks of using Wi-Fi networks in a hotel or airport are exponentially greater than those experienced at home or in a business environment. Business travelers wishing to connect to any network that offers free Internet access are especially vulnerable to these types of attacks.
It is literally impossible to tell the safe networks from the bad ones. Wireless listening is possible everywhere. Only a small percentage of public networks prevent wireless eavesdropping, and many networks leave Wi-Fi users entirely responsible for the security of their laptops, with extensive or complete exposure of files and services.
Personal VPNs and what they are used for
The best way to protect your confidential information is to use a virtual private network, or VPN, which encrypts the data that moves to and from your laptop. encryption protect all your Internet communication from being intercepted by others at Wi-Fi hotspots. Also, personal VPNs can prevent hackers from connecting to your laptop and stealing your data files.
A personal VPN secures and privatizes data over the Internet by building an encrypted “tunnel.” Data passes through this tunnel, protected from anyone trying to intercept it. Even if the data is intercepted, it is irretrievably encrypted and useless to anyone who does not have the key to decrypt it.
Most large companies have a business support VPN to protect corporate communications. PRIVATE WiFiTM provides the same capacity for individuals, business travelers, and small and medium-sized businesses.