Secure Your Internet Connection
By admin | January 19, 2010
Step 1
- Understand if you are accessing your broadband (cable or
DSL) connection through a cable or DSL modem; through a cable or DSL
router; or through a combination of modem and router. Call your Internet
Service Provider (ISP) or hardware manufacturer if you are unsure.
Step 2
- Install a hardware firewall. Most basic cable and DSL modems
supplied by ISPs do NOT have a built-in firewall. Most cable and DSL
“routers” do. If you are using a modem without a firewall then it is
imperative that you install a firewall A.S.A.P. Inexpensive routers, with
firewalls, are available from ISPs and at most local box stores (Wal-Mart,
Best Buy, Staples, etc.) as well as online. These routers are considered
hardware firewalls. This hardware firewall is in addition to the software
firewall which gets installed on each computer.
Step 3
- Open the routers management console. The management console is
usually accessed by typing the IP address (e.g. 192.168.1.1) into the
address bar of your web browser. Change the administrator username and
password that is used to access the management console of the router.
Make sure the firewall is turned on – some are off by default.
Step 4
- Consider the physical security of any computer(s) that’s attached to
your Internet connection. If you plan on being away for any length of time,
think about securing the computer(s) and the modems/routers.
Step 5
- Secure your network, especially if it’s wireless.
Brian Alaway Consulting
Tampa Computer Repair
Service and Support
© 2005 BAC Group Inc., All Rights Reserved
Topics: Articles - Technology, Internet Connection - Security | No Comments »
