What Are The Best Strategies For Optimizing Wireless Network Security?

Here are the best practices for optimizing wireless network security for New Jersey small businesses

With the introduction of mobile devices and the popularity of public Wi-Fi, the risk of security breaches and cyberattacks has increased exponentially. Businesses must take necessary measures to ensure their wireless networks are secure. Here are the best practices that can help improve your wireless network security.

Encrypt Your Sensitive Data

• Data encryption is the most critical security measure that can help protect your wireless network. In encryption, all the necessary information is coded to appear unreadable to a person attempting to access data without permission. The information or data can only be decrypted and read by authorized users.

This practice can protect your sensitive information from going into the wrong hands. Several ways can be used to implement encryption, including encryption software, hardware, or services. Ensure that your employees are educated on the significance of data encryption.

Disabling SSID Broadcast

• Service Set Identifier or SSID allows your network to be discovered when nearby users try to connect their wireless devices. To prevent arbitrary wireless devices from connecting to your network, disable the broadcasting of your SSID. It can be done by accessing the wireless router’s configuration page and disabling the SSID broadcast feature.

This makes it harder for unauthorized users to connect to your network. The name of your network will still be displayed to someone using a wireless network scanner within the range of your network. However, with SSID broadcast disabled, access to your network won’t be as easy.

Enable WPA3 Security Protocol

• Another best practice for optimizing wireless network security is enabling WPA3 security. The most advanced and robust security protocol provides much stronger protection than WPA2. When purchasing a router, ensure that you buy the one that supports the WPA3 security protocol.

Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Two-factor authentication requires users to enter a code generated by an authenticator app in addition to a username and password. This adds an extra layer of security to the login process and makes it difficult for the invaders to gain access to a business network. Two-factor authentication can be enabled from the wireless router’s configuration page.

Download an authenticator app such as Google Authenticator to successfully implement two-step verification. Moreover, businesses can consider using passwordless authentication such as cloud radius for more robust security.

Disable Remote Administration

• Wireless network security can also be improved by disabling remote administration. When enabled, remote administration allows anyone with appropriate credentials to gain access to the router’s configuration page and make changes to the network. This can pose serious security threats to your business. It is crucial to disable remote administration from the configuration page.

Set A Strong Password

• Creating a stronger password and changing it regularly is a significant step toward protecting your business organization’s network. Implement a firm password policy by keeping in mind the following points:

Create Long Passwords

• Passwords should be kept long with a minimum length of 15 characters. Longer passwords are difficult to crack.

Mix Characters

• Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters and numbers, and symbols in your password. The more complex the password is, the harder it becomes for the attackers to guess it.

Complex Words

• Using everyday dictionary words as the password is a terrible idea. Try unique combinations or phrases as passwords.

Password Manager

• Strong passwords are generated by password managers on your behalf. These passwords are then saved in an encrypted location. A master password is required to access these passwords.

The professionals at Outsource My IT offer Wireless Network Security to companies in New Jersey. Give us a call at 973-638-2722. We have an experienced team of IT specialists who work with you to ensure your network is secure from unauthorized access.