basic networking question

[meatloaf]

One of my housemates set up our wireless network but didn't password protect it. It's damn slow and I assume our neighbors are stealing our signal. I've tried to set up new password protected networks but they seem to disappear as soon as I set them up. How can I reset our network and start again with a fresh password etc.

thanks,

MeatLoaf

[junot111]

call your service provider

[darius_m5]

- First make sure the wireless router you're configuring is indeed yours (hook your computer up to the router with a cable, and not over wifi)

- In the router setup, find the "factory defaults" setting, and apply it.

- After thats done, set up your new router with WPA2 and a good passphrase (longer than 8 characters, with numbers and caps)

- If your router or OS doesn't support WPA2, then try WPA. If not WPA then try WEP as a last resort.

[darius_m5]

You're situation reminds me of this Wifi Story.

How I Hacked Your LinkSys Router (http://www.shandyking.com/2007/02/18/hijack-hacked-linksys-wireless-router/)

[ipxxx]

- In the router setup, find the "factory defaults" setting, and apply it.

Eek!
You forgot to mention to the OP to make sure they have their login/password information if they are using DSL. Once they reset to factory defaults, this information will be lost and then they will definitely have to call their ISP (re: poster # 2)

[kenyu28]

1) Poke the hole at the end of the router (this will reset to default)
2) Directly connect to PC via a desktop or laptop
3) Setup password, rename to nickname or your house name
4) Make sure the SSID (nickname) is being broadcasted
5) wireless finds the network (via nickname), enter password

done.

[darius_m5]

1) Poke the hole at the end of the router (this will reset to default)
2) Directly connect to PC via a desktop or laptop
3) Setup password, rename to nickname or your house name
4) Make sure the SSID (nickname) is being broadcasted
5) wireless finds the network (via nickname), enter password

done.

Wow, you just replied to 20 threads so quick, BOT!!

[kenyu28]

If I can program a bot that smart, daaaayyyuuummm I'll be happy :D I just don't check during the week anymore. I have a "posting" session.

[infamouskid]

you can leave the wireless encryption off if you want to make it easier so you dont have to setup each computer.

all you have to do is setup static dhcp and/or wireless mac filtering and disable the broadcast of your ssid.

make a strong password for your router and setup each computer to connect to the specific SSID and leave network settings to DHCP. and last there is no need for wireless encryption this way.

you can turn on wireless encryption thats optional. but the mac filter will ensure on the computer that match that physical mac address will be permitted to connect. rather then a software based encrytion password which can be brute forced.

[Dave98]

you can leave the wireless encryption off if you want to make it easier so you dont have to setup each computer.

all you have to do is setup static dhcp and/or wireless mac filtering and disable the broadcast of your ssid.

make a strong password for your router and setup each computer to connect to the specific SSID and leave network settings to DHCP. and last there is no need for wireless encryption this way.

you can turn on wireless encryption thats optional. but the mac filter will ensure on the computer that match that physical mac address will be permitted to connect. rather then a software based encrytion password which can be brute forced.

I disagree

1. By doing this, your data goes through the air unencrypted and in plain text.

2. You suggest that encryption can be brute forced but don't seem to be aware of the fact that MAC addresses are sent through the air in plain text and can be spoofed which is much easier than having to brute force a password. Likewise with the SSID. Broadcasting of the SSID is never actually disabled and is trivial to sniff out.


Both MAC filtering and SSID disabling are not recommended when it comes to wireless security.

darius_m5 had it right. Setup your wireless network with a WPA or WPA2 key with a strong passphrase (not a dictionary word) and your network is much safer.

[kenyu28]

Do the strong wep password:
somethin random, IE.

MIX9123AXXO213

[darius_m5]

Do the strong wep password:
somethin random, IE.

MIX9123AXXO213

Did you say wep? Please tell me you meant WPA.
FYI, wep can be cracked in minutes, or even seconds. It exists today only for compatibility.