Wireless networks: curse or blessing? Published Aug. 6, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Robert Dahl 52nd Communications Squadron SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Thanks to wireless Internet technology it is easy to move from a loud, busy work area into a place of solitude. When at home, a wireless user can take their computer into a room to play computer games without distracting others. The amount of data that can pass through wireless network is about the same as any wired network. Work and datafiles can be uploaded and downloaded at the same speed on a wireless connection as on a desktop computer. But, there's a dark side to this wonderful technology. Since wireless network use the invisible radio frequency spectrum, any information passed between the computer and main corporate network is susceptible to interception by hostile individuals or groups. Since the majority of consumers fail to even set up the basic encryption that comes with all wireless network devices, like routers, such as sensitive and private e-mails, may be captured by these unsavory individuals. While wireless internet access does make lives easier, it comes at a cost. Loss of information from financial records, to personal records, or even the case of government computers, national security items can lead to tremendous loss and irretrievable damage. Measures must always be taken to prevent the loss or theft of data when using wireless networks. Read the instruction manual and set up the encryption or call someone to help. A few minutes or even an hour of setting up the encryption of the wireless device may save the headaches of lost data and identity theft. Another downside to wireless networks is the proliferation of wireless access points throughout major metropolitan areas. These are places where users can bring their wireless laptops and "hook onto" an available network. Many of these public wireless networks have very weak or no encryption at all. This makes these areas very easy for online thieves to steal data. To be on the safe side when using a laptop, do not send sensitive or private information. Wireless laptops should have the most current anti virus software installed to prevent most, if not all of the current viruses on the Internet. In addition, change the encryption key on a regular basis to prevent and would be hackers from accessing home wireless networks. Although the convenience of wireless networks can not be beat, pay attention to ways of being safe when using it. Keep this in mind, always try and connect to an encrypted network. Yes, it may cost a few dollars, but it can help prevent the loss of hundreds or thousands of dollars if personal information is stolen. A little prevention will go a long way.