How To Disable A Wireless Network SetupWireless networking is catching on pretty fast but like with every form of digital communication it comes with dangers of its own. Network security becomes a tricky issue with wireless networks because of the way they operate. Digital crimes are not new and digital forensics are always playing catch up with newer threats. It also becomes necessary to maintain some kind of access log in order to help catch the malefactor if any. Getting evidence for digital crimes without disrupting the network itself is quite a challenge, especially when the evidence is inside a wireless infrastructure. Wireless devices are in an "always on" state where they are ceaselessly communication with other network devices until they are disconnected or shut down manually. The evidence is active only as long the network is active, once the network link is down the evidence simply disappears. This creates some unique security problems and raises the question of how to disable wireless network setup and force some things to manual. This is why digital forensic professionals need be able to disable wireless network setup the moment they discover anything amiss. It is possible to disable wireless network setup through what is known as a "denial of service." However, at present it is not known how this will precisely affect the network as a whole. A computer or laptop that is configured to use wireless networks will automatically tune in to any available network without any concern for security. Even if the network is not secure the adapter will automatically log in to it as long it receives power. Though this is very convenient because there is no manual configuring anything it is not safe. It is even possible to get in trouble with the law if your computer accidentally tries to connect to restricted networks. This is another reason why the authorities need to posses the capability to disable wireless network setup. Given below are some things you can do to enhance the security of your own wireless connection. First you must go to the Control Panel on your computer. Once in the control panel you must locate the icon labeled Network Connections and double-click on it. This will open a new window where your wireless adapter will be listed along with any other network adapters installed. Choose the wireless adapter and right-click on it and select "Properties" from the menu that comes up. In the new dialog box there will be a tab called "Wireless Networks", click on it. In case the "Use Windows to configure my wireless network settings" is not on by default then some other software on your computer may be using the adapter. Check with your computer vendor or wireless adapter vendor to make sure this is not the case. Under "Preferred Networks" you must select all the networks you wish to connect. Also check the option called "Access Point (infrastructure) networks only." Click on Close and Ok. |