Securing Wireless Networks

The ITS Help Desk offers limited support for setting up and connecting to non-UI Wireless networks. See your wireless router manufacturer's documentation for instructions. However, this page offers some tips and links to additional sites that may help you set up and secure your wireless network.

Secure vs Open

Wireless networks can be encrypted (secured) or unencrypted (open). The UI Wireless network is an example of a secured network (see the UI Wireless Overview for more information about the type of security used). Some coffee shops, restaurants, and public libraries offer free wireless Internet through open networks that do not require a password or encryption key to connect. The ITS Help Desk recommends you encrypt your wireless network to prevent unauthorized users from stealing your Internet service and to protect your personal information and data from possibly being stolen while using the network.

Using Cisco Secure Services with Your Home Network

If you recently installed the Cisco Secure Services client software to connect to the UI Wireless network and are now having trouble connecting to other wireless networks, see the instructions for Cisco Secure Services Client Configuration for Non-UI Wireless Networks).

Additional Links

Following are some general resources for setting up and securing wireless networks.

Best Practices for Securing Wireless Networks in the Residence Halls (IT Security Office)
4 Steps to Set Up Your Home Wireless Network (from Microsoft.com)
Top 8 Tips for Wireless Home Network Security (from About.com)
How to Secure Your Wireless Home Network with Windows XP (from Microsoft.com)

Contact the ITS Help Desk at 4-HELP (4-4357) or its-helpdesk@uiowa.edu if you have further questions.

Return to Wireless Support Center

Last Updated: 04/24/2008