Wireless Access
From WikEd
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VPN Software vs Wireless via Web Interface
Accessing the Internet via the web interface makes wireless Internet a very convenient and (nearly) seamless process. If you're using the wireless Internet to check your email, or to do simple searching, this may be the way to go. However, many web sites these days use special ports to host different server applications on the same hardware. Because of this possibility, using the VPN client software to access wireless Internet will ensure a more stable connection to most web sites. (Note: This applies to the use of wireless access on the UIUC campus)
Security is one of the biggest issues regarding wireless Internet. Some people do not realize that when connected to a non-secure wireless network, the computer is a virtual buffet for hackers. When establishing a secure wireless connection, there are a few important things to remember. The first thing is set an SSID or wireless network name. Then configure all wireless devices on your home network with the same SSID of your wireless access point. The time spent securing your wireless is definitely time well spent and will save you many headaches.
References and Links
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WPA vs. WEP
Two popular types of encryption exist for 802.11 a/b/g technologies, and it is important to enable at least one of these when setting up your wireless network. WEP (or Wired Equivalent Privacy) is the oldest standard. Not as secure as WPA, it relies on either a 64 or 128 bit encryption of a shared key. Each device on the network must be configured with this key in order to access the network. WPA (WiFi Protected Access) works behind the scenes with additional encryption and is considered more secure. Older wireless points usually have WEP built-in, but might lack the WPA standard.
