Security

Over the last year, there have been concerns about potential security risks associated with wireless technology. Two Myths are typically raised, both of which can be solved if users take the appropriate precautions.

Myth 1 - Wireless networks may not be secure and could potentially allow hackers to break into corporate networks and steal information or do damage.

WiFiZone’s public high-speed wireless Internet service provides access to the Internet only. It does not provide direct access to corporate networks. For a user to access their corporate network from an Wifizone Hotspot they need to do so via the Internet. Therefore, to ensure the security of information transmitted, users should establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN) every time they logon. This creates an encrypted secure tunnel from the user’s computer to their corporate network. VPNs can be established using a simple piece of software available from many computer vendors. For further information speak to your company’s IT department or vendor.

Myth 2 - A public wireless solution can allow a hacker to access a fellow user’s computer and steal information or do damage.

WiFiZone uses several mechanisms to ensure the security of each user’s computer and confidentiality of traffic over the Internet:

Every user’s logon information (including credit card details during transmission) is protected by SSL encryption

WiFiZone’s network uses computer hardware which is configured to prevent peer-to-peer communication. No network traffic is relayed within a Hotspot thus preventing any hacking from one computer to another. Notwithstanding, WiFiZone still recommends that users disable or password protect all shared drives.

The WiFiZone network utilizes Firewall protection against the Internet.

The WiFiZone network supports VPN passthrough enabling users to establish an encrypted tunnel from their computer to their corporate VPN server.