WEP vs WPA

WEP vs WPA

The best way to secure your wireless network is to change the type of encryption that your computer uses to send data. The three most common choices for encrypting your data are WEP, WPA, and WPA2. This guide describes these different types of encryption so that you can decide which is the best choice for your network.

WEP

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) was introduced in 1999 and at first, it was thought to be as secure as a wired network. WEP uses a password to create a static encryption key that it then uses to encrypt data sent over the web. This means that the same key is used for all of the information or "packets" you send over the air waves during a session. This static key becomes a big problem with security because a key that doesn't change is much easier to attack than one that is constantly changing. WEP is not a "wired equivalent," as it's name suggests; it can be cracked in less than a minute by a commonplace hacker. Unfortunately, a lot of older routers have WEP as their default choice.

WPA and WPA2

Due to the major inefficiencies of WEP, WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) became available. WPA was the intermediate step between WEP and WPA2 and was not intended to be used indefinitely. WPA uses a type of temporary encryption key that changes with each packet sent over the web. Also, WPA enables your router to automatically reject any packets that it receives out of order. This is good because it prevents hackers from injecting packets onto your network which is one of the primary means of getting in.

In 2006 WPA2 became mandatory in all new Wi-Fi devices. WPA2 replaced WPA's temporary key with a superior government level security encryption. This upgraded encryption uses AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) thought to be uncrackable at this point. WPA2 is considered very secure.

WPA2 Modes

WPA2 has several different versions to choose from:

·   WPA2-Personal is sometimes referred to as WPA-PSK (Wi-Fi Protected Access Pre-Shared Key). With WPA2-Personal, you set up a password in your router which you share with those you want to have access to your network. This password is entered through the computer or device that is connecting to your Wi-Fi network. We recommend this security mode for home networks.

·   WPA2-Enterprise is used for businesses only.

·   WPA/WPA2 Mixed Mode may also be a choice in your particular router. This means your router uses WPA2 if possible but falls back on WPA when needed. Due to WPA2 being a much safer choice, we recommend not using this mode. If you have devices that are not compatible with WPA2, we recommend updating your equipment to better protect yourself against unwanted security attacks.

Both WPA and WPA2 require the use of a strong password, it is recommended that you use a password of at least 20 characters, including symbols and numbers. Check out this guide to learn more about how to create a strong password.

Recommended Wi-Fi Settings

The security of the information you send over the internet should be of top priority. We recommend using WPA2-Personal whenever possible since it has the strongest encryption. WPA should be a far second choice and WEP should not even be considered a choice. If you have a router newer than 2006 you should have a firmware upgrade that allows for WPA2-Personal, which we highly recommend upgrading to. If you have an older router, made before 2006, you may want to consider upgrading your device to a newer one that can be better secured.

Also note, that after changing your router to a different encryption type, you will need to re-configure all of your wireless devices to your network. Devices like wireless printers, phones, music players, gaming consoles, and wireless televisions may need to have their settings changed and be re-connected to you network.

Choosing Between Wireless and Wired Home Security System

There are many types of security devices that can be used as per an individual’s requirements. The primary classification for security systems is the wired and wireless category. Most devices in the security systems come with wired as well as wireless models. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages. Let us understand some basic differences that will help you to decide in favour of wireless or wired home security systems.

Differences between Wireless and Wired Home Security Systems

The most obvious and the biggest difference in both systems is that of wires. However, it is not as easy as it appears. The presence or absence of wires in a security difference makes changes in its installation, maintenance, hardware and software. Wired systems involve running a wire from the control panel individually to all the components of the security system.
Wired home security systems need an expertise in installation. A number of holes need to be drilled and a bunch of wires need adjustment without damaging the electric wires and the plumbing lines. It is best to make a pre-wiring plan when your house is still under construction. Other than additional wiring, make extra electric sockets at places that might need protection like doors, windows, staircases, etc. Install electric sockets outside your house as well.
In case, you are buying an already constructed house, it is best to take the help of a professional. You can call an electrician to do the wiring or take help from a handyman if your DIY skills can be applied. However, do not cause additional damage to your wirings in an over enthusiasm to install the system yourself. Also, opt for wired systems if you are engaging a dealer to do the job as they will in any case charge installation fees.
On the cost front, wired systems win hands down as the components are cheaper. However, installation is a very labour intensive process and needs sufficient expertise. The cost of installation is generally very high in these systems. Add to this the additional cost incurred if anything goes wrong during the wiring process. Wireless components are expensive but you can save by installing them yourself.
Wired systems are easy to maintain and easy to expand. Updating and upgrading is also easier in case of wired security systems. Wireless systems are generally restricted in terms of maintenance and become obsolete faster but they offer the latest in terms of technology. Wireless systems, though easy to install, are generally bigger in size and need to be constantly monitored for batteries.
However, is you want to have a less intrusive addition to neatly fit into your home decor, wireless devices are the best option for you. Owners of antique homes might also prefer wireless system to prevent any damage to the property. Wireless systems are also good for areas where wiring cannot be fitted easily like the lawn or external gates.
Both systems have their own advantages and disadvantages. Some people use a combination of wired and wireless devices to take the best out of both.

Why People Choose Wireless Security Cameras (WCCTV)

With the increase in need for security, the demand for security cameras is also on the rise. There are a variety of cameras available in the market, each made for specific purposes and have their own advantages and disadvantages. One of the never-ending debates is the choice between wired and wireless security cameras. While both have their own pros and cons, wireless cameras have become increasingly popular. Few reasons are:

1.) Wireless cameras can be placed at any location. You do not need to worry about installing wires or electric sockets at difficult to reach locations. All you need is a camera that can function within the signal range of your security system.

2.) You do not need to spend money on installing the new wiring system. In case of wireless security cameras, the expenditure on creating a network of insulated wires to connect the entire system can be saved. This is especially true for building that did not install extra wires at the time of construction.

3.) Wires can also make the presence of a camera obvious. If you looking at installing cameras that should not be noticed by every trespasser, wireless security cameras are the right option for you.

4.) Flexibility and mobility comes with wireless cameras. If you are investing in a security system for a building which you might leave in the future, it is best to invest in wireless security devices. Home owners who have taken their house on rent or lease prefer wireless cameras as they can take the cameras along as and when they move to the nest house.

5.) Save you decor with wireless cameras. You might have spent a lot of time and money in selecting the right decor for your home or office. Installing wires might interfere with the overall theme of your decor. Hence, you can opt for wireless cameras that can be installed with minimal disturbance to the entire property.

6.) If you are an owner of an ancestral property, you would not like to damage the masonry by drilling extra holes and wires into the invaluable structure. Hence, wireless cameras are the best option for you.

7.) Hidden cameras are best in wireless versions. While you can use wired cameras and hide them behind furniture, you need to be very careful in covering them. A wireless camera saves you from this effort. You can hide them anywhere without worrying about their getting discovered. Small toys, cutlery, pens and many other things can be equipped with wireless cameras easily.

8.) If you want to use internet to transfer images to you computer, you can go for wireless cameras. The data transmitted through internet can be accessed from any internet enabled system outside your home or office as well.

9.) If are installing the security system yourself, if is always better to choose wireless cameras as they are the easiest to install.