zengac,
As far as setting up WEP encryption, I set up a 10-digit encryption key on my
Linksys WRT54G's setup page (
http://192.168.1.1), and then I entered the same
key on my other computers (through the wireless card setup). The worst that
can happen is that it won't work, and then you go back to the Linksys setup and
disable WEP. It shouldn't mess up anything. When I'm tinkering, I always have
a fall back strategy, so I can back up to where I was before making the change.
If that's clear in your head, then go ahead. You'll learn a lot by doing it
yourself. Computers being what they are, sooner or later, your network is going to
get fouled up in some way...and the more you've learned about troubleshooting,
the easier it'll be for you to fix it.
However, if you're really nervous about making changes, then you should call in
a professional. You'll probably pay about $60 an hour, but there'll be no stress.
A pro could definitely do this job with ease...and, in the process, will show you
how it's done. That's a great learning experience, too.
It's an excellent idea to secure your home network. You never know who's listening
down the street.
As for Norton or McAfee, I assume you're asking if you need another firewall program
on top of your anti-virus protection if you have SP2. I don't believe so. SP2 is a
highly recommended security upgrade.
Scott
zengac wrote:
>
> Hi all. I have a new Gateway laptop and a new HP all in one printer. I have
> successfully set up my network and everything is running well. The network
> that I created however, is unsecure. There is a great article on this
> website about setting up a secured wireless networking but I'm a bit nervous
> to start changing things since my network is working. I hate to change
> something and not be able to get into my own computer! Any suggestions would
> be appreciated... also if I have Windows XP and I get the SP2 download, do I
> need other programs such as Norton and/or McAfee? Again, I appreciate the
> help.. thanks!
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