posted Tue, 12/17/2013 - 08:24
508
Community wifi safety
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Question guys, how safe is community wifi, I dont want to be risky here, in all likelihood as far as monitoring how safe do you think it is? Its through my apt complex so, I dont like have to log in, its just free wifi, or do you think itd be safer to purchase internet connection? thanks guys
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How paranoid are you? How sensitive is the data you are transmitting?
When you connect and you are asked if this is a home, work, or public network, select public and you will be safe from the casual user being able to see or connect to your computer.
It's always safer to purchase your own wired connection. But even then you are not totally safe.
Your public wireless (e.g. wireless n) connection is only vulnerable within the theoretical max range of about 200 ft indoors and about 800 feet outdoors. So the real question is, how well do you trust those who live within your transmission range? Or how sophisticated do you think they are? Is there a mysterious dark van parked in front of your complex?
In summary, wired and wireless networks share the same risk and you are usually protected with proper firewall settings and AV software. Wireless has the added risk of packets being intercepted within a practical range of about 100 feet.
Thank you sir, you have successfully relieved my angst, just wanted to make sure I am being smart, you know, and as to the data, nothing that sensitive, just supplementation and occasional bank statements. Thanks man