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Wireless or wi-fi networks have become hugely popular over the last few years in offices because they are easy to set up and make going online much more convenient.
With most wireless devices being advertised as plug-n-play products, end-users are taking it upon themselves to set up their own wireless networks. Often, the usual caveats that apply to any DIY project are forgotten, sometimes with disastrous consequences.
At home, in schools and in offices, wireless networking technology has the capability of being a fantastic boon to users: increased productivity, more flexibility, rapid deployment are some of the benefits offered by wireless networking. However, there are many pitfalls to be avoided, and wireless networks can prove to be the weakest link in what is otherwise a professionally installed and managed network.
A survey of wi-fi networks in London, Frankfurt, New York and San Francisco by RSA Security found more than a third had basic security features turned off.
This is up from 15% last year, and shows that companies are getting worse at keeping their wireless networks secure - especially in the UK.
Illegitimate or "rogue" WLANs are one of the most common reasons for compromised wireless network security.
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These wireless networks are set up by employees without approval or administration from their IT / network administrators, and can represent a massive danger in terms of data confidentiality, availability and integrity. No matter how much care and attention is taken in running & securing every other part of your network, these wireless networks have the capability of creating a security hole that even a novice can exploit. Many firms are simply turning on their wireless network access points and using default settings that anyone familiar with wi-fi equpment could easily find out.
Wireless security is not, however, the only aspect of wireless networking that benefits from a professional installation. A comprehensive site-survey beforehand will often reveal areas that may require special attention, coverage black-spots or sources of RF interference. Armed with the results of an RF site survey, an installer will be in a much better position to make a special recommendation or highlight specific issues that may arise later on - thus avoiding any nasty and expensive surprises.
An RF (wireless) site survey also gives you information about your environment that can assist with mapping, securing and planning future extensions of RF coverage.
With the latest MIMO and pre-802.11n devices hitting the markets, there are several technologies and literally hundreds of devices to choose from - a daunting task for someone who has a job apart from keeping abreast of wireless technology!
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 We will work with you from the very start of the project, identifying your requirements, planning the network, identifying suitable products and tailoring the solution to fit your needs.
With iForge, you can always be assured of a friendly and professional service that takes the guesswork, worry and hassle out and put the fun & functionality back into wireless networking.
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