Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
the Ethernet portonthe modem tothe WANportonarouter,andthen connect yourPCor
network to the router.
To determine whether your modem includes a router, consult the manufacturer document-
ation. If the modem includes a DHCP server and NAT functionality, it has a router. If not,
it's just a bare modem with no built-in router.
To secure your network, do the following:
• Change the default password for the router's administrator.
• Change the default SSID for a wireless router—An unauthorized user can look up
documentation for a router based on the default SSID and learn default passwords, IP
addresses, and other information that can be used to hack your network.
• Use WPA2 encryption with a strong encryption key on your wireless router; all con-
nections to the router must provide the same SSID, encryption type, and encryption
key to make a connection.
•Configurewirelessrouterstoacceptonlywiredconnectionsformanagement(viewing
or changing settings).
• Log the MAC address of users who connect to the network and check periodically for
unfamiliar devices; use the MAC address filter feature to block unauthorized network
devices.
• Limit the number of IP addresses to those you actually need for your client PCs and
devices. If your router is configured to supply more IP addresses than devices, unau-
thorized users can use them.
• Use the Public or block all incoming traffic firewall option for Internet connections
made in public places to block all unsolicited incoming traffic.
• With Windows 7, use the Home firewall option for a home network (especially if you
are going to set up a homegroup).
• With Windows 7 or Windows Vista, Use the Work or Office firewall options for other
types of workgroup networks.
• If only Windows 7 users and supported devices are on a home network, set up a
homegroup, which is a secure network.
Having a Backup Plan in Case of Service Interruptions
Because no high-speed connection is immune to service interruptions, you should con-
sider having some type of backup plan in place in case of a significant service outage.
If your high-speed Internet access uses an ISP that can also accept dial-up connections,
you can use your regular modem for emergencies. However, this might require an extra
