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    Security for new connection

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by abanerji, Sep 10, 2009.

  1. abanerji

    abanerji Notebook Enthusiast

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    I have been using a regular wired DSL broadband modem in my Compaq laptop. Planning to buy a new USB wireless modem. Am a bit confused about the security issues which may have to be addressed now.

    My current OS/security setup is as below :-

    a) Win-XP SP2 (completely patched, vetted by Secunia)
    b) AVG AV/AS free 8.5
    c) ZA firewall free 7.0.483
    d) Sundry utilities/protection software : Ccleaner, Spywareblaster
    e) Safe browsing habit

    I have been reading about WEP and WPA, but have not understood fully whether these would be applicable for my new USB wireless modem. I don't ever intend to use any wifi / hotspot.

    What more do I need to do please?
    Thanks,
     
  2. arihantddn

    arihantddn Notebook Consultant

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    I guess ur laptop must be having a wireless network card. just go to device manager under control panel & check in network adapters. Check which one is this a/b/g/n. If ur laptop is pretty new it can be 'n' and if old one then expect 'g'. U need to buy a wireless router (g or n depending on ur laptop), which u can connect with ur broadband modem & which will send signal wirelessly to ur laptop. Almost all good routers support wpa2psk which will be good enough for wireless security.
     
  3. abanerji

    abanerji Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thank you. This is a Broadcom 802.11b/g. But, I am not using it.

    What I am buying is a Reliance or Tata Indicom USB "data card" modem. I will be using it during travel. While travelling, I can't carry my BSNL DSL broadband modem, so can't use a wireless router too.

    Do I need any additional security for the data card, apart from my existing AV / software firewall?
     
  4. beige

    beige Notebook Deity

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    man you don't need extra security unless ur tracked by CIA or FBI, and FYI if an really experienced hacker is after ya he will get what he want what ever u do , i just heard that some Chinese scientists managed to crack a WPA ( highest security available i think for most routers ) in just under a min,for the normal users trying to hack u , i think u r safe
     
  5. abanerji

    abanerji Notebook Enthusiast

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    Ok, thank you