Wireless FAQs: Security
- Should I be concerned about security?
- Should I use Antivirus Software to protect my laptop?
- Should I use a firewall to protect my laptop?
- I can see other wireless networks on my wireless device, how do I connect to them?
- Are special passwords required to connect to the wireless network?
Should I be concerned about security?
Yes! Please note that wireless networks are not secure!
The CU-Wi-Fi SSID is only provided for your initial login to the network.
The eduroam SSID, provides extra security and all traffic is encrypted. This is the preferred service.
However, because a wireless network is a broadcast medium, ALL wireless traffic is visible to anyone with suitable equipment within the range of any transmitter, including the access points mounted on building walls and rooftops, and wireless cards inside computers, PDAs, newer cell phones, etc etc.
Moreover, "sniffing" attacks are common, and should always be expected to be present.
Thus, wireless is insecure by its very nature, and additional steps must be taken to secure your connection, for example if the information you are transmitting is of a sensitive nature.
Always use HTTPS or SLL web pages when typing in sensitive information.
Should I use Anti-virus Software to protect my laptop?
Yes. This is a mandatory requirement. See the security and virus protection web pages.
Should I use a firewall to protect my laptop?
This is a good idea.
It is relatively easy to use the built-in firewalls in Windows and Mac OS X and they do provide valuable protection against other wireless hosts using Wireless.
Please note that the wireless gateways that control your access to Wireless also act as powerful firewalls to protect you against hosts on the other side of the gateway.
I can see other wireless networks on my wireless device, how do I connect to them?
Only "eduroam" and "CU-Wi-Fi" SSIDs are operated and maintained by Cardiff University Information Services. Do not try to connect to any other network unless you have been authorised to do so by the person responsible for that wireless network.
Are special passwords required to connect to the wireless network?
To connect to the wireless network just open your web browser and you will be taken to the Wireless homepage, where you will be prompted to input your usual Cardiff University username and password.
If your wireless device should prompt you for a password in a manner that is not in the configuration process then it is likely your device is configured incorrectly, in which case please refer to the configuration instructions.