Idle Network

I got a chance to do some wireless networking and learn as I got along. My friend had bought a new laptop and called me to link up to his existing network. I have read a lot of stuff about it but had no experience doing it. Somehow he insisted and I agreed.
It was kind of easy, 1. find the MAC address for the laptop wireless adapter, 2. figure out the SSID ( network name) and 3. register the MAC address at the router. That’s it!! Did it in ½ an hour. 8-)

However, this is not the main issue here.

The wireless network that he has is practically OPEN. There is a total lack of security at both ends – the PC and the router. I had to ask whether he set this up but said that it was done by the ISP’s technicians. Any advice from them – not at all.

Why should this happen? As the ISP, they should not think of sales figures only but should explain, advise and setup the security for the wireless network. The consumer may be ignorant but not them! Everyday you can read about security breaches to computers and by doing this the ISP is not helping especially at the lowest end – the users.

I guess this happens to all the ISP here. They set the network up and go cause when I was  scanning for his network, not only do I find his but I think I have all the other UNSECURED network in the building!! 8(  That’s incredible!!!! For those in the know, you can surf for FREE with just a network adapter – HA.

I think I need to learn more about this and tried to secure my friend’s network.

By the way, when I arrived at his place, before I  knocked at his door, he was there waiting. “Are you caught in the rain?” he asked and I just smiled. Yes,yes,yes – I’m still in my old creeking shoes.