Verizon | High Speed Internet - Step 4: Configuring the VersaLink 7500 gateway security settings

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Step 4: Configuring the VersaLink 7500 gateway security settings

Creating a wireless network with a Westell VersaLink 7500 Gateway in Windows XP

Security is an important issue when using a wireless home network. Because radio waves are used to transfer information between your networked computers, it's possible for hackers to intercept this information. Taking advantage of the security features built into your Westell VersaLink gateway can make it more difficult for hackers to access your personal information.

Your Westell VersaLink 7500 gateway comes with an assigned SSID and WEP encryption key to make installation easier and provide immediate protection for your home network. WEP encryption is compatible with nearly all wireless devices, so a minimum level of security is provided for your network as soon as you set it up.

However, WEP encryption does not protect your wireless network from a determined hacker. Verizon recommends using WPA2 encryption on your home network. WPA2 is the newest and strongest type of encryption available on you Verizon router, but it is also incompatible with some older operating systems and wireless devices. All wireless devices connected to your wireless network must be compatible with the type of encryption you use. Review the potential WPA2 compatibility issues before setting up WPA2 encryption.

WPA should be your second choice for encryption if your network is incompatible with WPA2. Although WPA doesn't provide the same level of protection as WPA2, it has stronger protection than WEP and fewer incompatibilities than WPA2.