Loopholes in your workplace WLAN security can put your entire business at risk. Below we have listed a few of the most common (as well as worst) WiFi mistakes that most people make at the time of router setup or access. Have a look at them all and try to avoid them at all possible cost.
1. Having no separate WiFi access for guests
Most businesses will have contractors, clients, or some other form of guests visiting their offices from time to time.
Even if this does not happen often, consider setting up a wireless access for the guests. This can effectively separate your private business WiFi from the guest WiFi, thereby safeguarding your security in the long run.
2. Overreliance on antivirus and firewalls
Many businesses rely solely on antivirus software and network firewalls to protect their network from unauthorized access. This “we don’t require extra security” attitude is a big mistake from where there can be no comebacks.
You must remember that firewalls and antiviruses don’t exactly address all the loopholes found in corporate WiFi networks. You need something more.
Depending on the criticality of your digital information, you should have a proper IT infrastructure and organized strategy for your network security, on the whole. Are you up for it?
3. Ignoring WLAN security features
When purchasing WLAN gears, organizations often restrict their research to the area of coverage, transfer speed, types and numbers of devices connected, and other similar factors.
However, there are tons of additional features, especially the ones related to security, that must be taken into account at all possible cost.
In short, we can say that ignoring WLAN security features can be a big mistake capable of harming your business a lot in the long run.
4. Poor device configuration
When setting up the configuration of your WLAN, you must evaluate the encryption of your device.
Remember, the WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) has gone obsolete in 2003. WPA and WPA2 are the new standards of security. So always opt for the enterprise mode of WPA or WPA2 while setting up your WLAN on your business network.
5. Complete reliance on MAC address filtering
MAC address filtering can provide just a few basic security; nothing more.
This is definitely not the permanent solution and overreliance can result in a disaster. To avoid this, use encryption along with MAC filtering. It will help you for sure.
A few notable mentions:
- Lack of additional authentication layers.
- No encryption.
- Open guest network.
- Poor password policies.
For more information refer to the infographic below:
Source- InspireWiFi
