How do I know if a wireless network is secure?There is no way to guarantee complete security on a wireless network. However, there are precautions you can take to help minimize security risks when you use a wireless network. | • | Whenever possible, only connect to wireless networks that require a network security key or have some other form of security, such as a certificate. The information sent over these networks is encrypted, which can help protect your computer from unauthorized access. When you view available wireless networks in Connect to a Network, you’ll see text indicating if a wireless network has security enabled or not.  | | Security status information in Connect to a Network |
| | • | Before you connect to a network provided by a wireless Internet service provider (ISP), such as a public network in a coffee shop or airport, read the privacy statement carefully and make sure that you understand which files, if any, are saved to your computer and what type of information the network provider collects from your computer. | | • | If you connect to a network that is not secure, be aware that someone with the right tools can see everything that you do, including the websites you visit, the documents you work on, and the user names and passwords you use. Make sure that you don't work on any company-sensitive information or visit password-protected areas of your business network while you are connected to that network. |
Certificate
A digital document that verifies the identity of a person or indicates the security of a website. Certificates are issued by trusted companies known as Certification Authorities.
Network
A group of computers or other devices, such as printers and scanners, that communicate either wirelessly or by using a physical connection, such as an Ethernet cable or a phone line.
Encrypted
The condition of information being scrambled so that it can be read only by someone who has the appropriate key to unscramble it. Encryption can be applied to files or to information exchanged over a network connection.
Internet service provider (ISP) __elbasuer__ Internet service provider (ISP)
A company that provides Internet access to individuals or companies. An ISP provides a telephone number, a user name, a password, and other connection information so that users can access the Internet through the ISP's computers. An ISP typically charges a monthly or hourly connection fee.
Network security key __elbasuer__ Network security key
A password that can help protect wireless networks from unauthorized access. A network security key encrypts information sent from one network computer to another so that the information can only be read by someone who has the key.
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