February 2002

Networking at the office and home

The definition of networking is defined in the Gage Canadian dictionary in computer technology as, “A system of communication links interconnecting a set of computers and peripheral devices.” Another definition in the same dictionary is, “meet with friends or colleagues to exchange ideas or further one’s own interests.” The second definition is also applicable to the people behind the computers. The common denominator here is the linking and sharing of information. The use of computers to make our lives easier has been well documented, although I’m sure there are people who disagree with this statement. Storage of information, sharing them simultaneously, and never misfiling is the exact reason why large corporations do this, including MOHLTC moving towards OFHN.

This technology is also becoming quite common in smaller offices and homes. There are many reasons for the proliferation and mass acceptance of networks. Its ease of implementation and acceptance of technology are major reasons why it’s been pre-wired in many new offices and homes and if it’s not pre-wired, wireless technology is now widely available. Price also falls into the category of ‘ease’ and is part of the equation. Network cards, are commonly part of the package when purchasing computers, as opposed to being options as in years past. Routers, Hubs and Switches, used to link more than two computers together are also reasonably priced, allowing offices and homes to share computers, peripherals, programs files and Internet access.

Network protocols linked to network cards, mapped to proper locations are necessary to start the networking process. Setting it up properly and getting the right equipment for your needs are all part of the preparation. Is it that easy? The answer is yes, but there are many things to consider like:

- Should I go High-end/Low-end?
- Who is going to set up my network?
- Who will setup my security?
- Why do I need a hub/router?
- What do I look for when buying?

Answer those questions and you may have others. Do I go wireless? It’s very new and high tech but here is a list of things to consider regarding Wireless Networks

- A larger threat of network security breaches
- The technology's low cost of entry makes it very appealing
- Inexpensive equipment also makes it easier for hackers to launch an assault
- Many WLAN (Wireless Local Area Networks) kits come already configured either with no passwords, or default accounts that are widely known in hacking circles
- Other exploits that might endanger WLAN environments include jamming, which overwhelms the frequencies with illegitimate traffic
- Client-to-client attacks that circumvent the access point; and encryption attacks that exploit well known limitations in the Wired Equivalent Privacy encryption system

Security should be a concern for both office and home. Personal information from your home or trade secrets from the office can be vulnerable in wireless environments. Without security measures, there is little to stop an internal or external attack if setup by a naive PC user. This may provide a useful entry point to the network, which is behind the firewall and other perimeter security. An attacker abusing these wireless access points wouldn't necessarily stand out. Who would question a man in a suit using a PDA in the office lobby, or on the street outside? Rather than glancing through his/her schedule, he/she could be running one of several security and hacking tools that have now been ported to handheld devices to enable them to intercept and monitor wireless traffic. Understanding how they work and using this information to thwart their success is a beneficial stepping-stone to any secure and safe wireless solution.

Networking can be very complex but dealing with professionals will get you pointed in the right direction with safe and secure information flow. The end result may make your life in the office and/or home much more profitable and efficient. But as Bill Gates once said, “Security is a journey, not a destination.”

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