Xbox 360 Walk Throughs

Best Xbox 360 Accessories to Add to your Gaming System

Once you have invested in your first Xbox 360 console, the fun has only just begun. The next step will be to collect games to play on your console, and many of those games will also require Xbox 360 accessories to allow you to play the games properly. There are many accessories on the market today, and not all of them will be necessary to complete your gaming experience. Read on for the most useful Xbox 360 accessories to keep in your gaming collection, and why you need them.

Controllers
Probably the most important Xbox 360 accessory that you will ever purchase will be the controller that actually allows you to play the games. Controllers generally come with the console, but you will either need to add to your collection so that more than one player can play at a time, or you will find a particular controller that you like better, making it well worth the investment. Many gamers find themselves switching over to a wireless controller that gives them more freedom to play their games from a variety of locations in the room without having to worry about wires getting in the way. Controllers can often be used for your PC as well as your gaming console, making them a versatile Xbox 360 accessory.

Wireless Networking Adapter
With the trend going to wire-free play today, the wireless networking adapter is an important Xbox 360 accessory indeed. Not only can you use your Xbox console from any room in your house, but you don't have to deal with the mess of wires coming out from your entertainment unit any longer. This adapter also allows you live access to the Microsoft community, so you have the ability to chat with friends and play live games from your console. You can also download data from your PC like photos, music and movies.

Headsets
To help you communicate with the live Microsoft community, you can purchase a headset that will plug into your Xbox console and allow you to talk directly with other gamers or leave short voice messages for friends. This fun Xbox 360 accessory will enable you to adjust the volume and offers a crisp voice communication that is unsurpassed. The comfort of the headset itself means that you can wear it for hours of game time with your friends.

The gaming industry gives participants plenty of options in games and other online services. By purchasing the right Xbox 360 accessories, you can extend your playing enjoyment in numerous ways.

Wireless Networking Adapter
D-Link Announces the World's Smallest 11n Wi-Fi Adapter
LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire - January 9, 2010) - CES, BOOTH 36232, SOUTH HALL, LVCC -- D-Link, the end-to-end networking solutions provider for business and consumers, today announced the new D-Link® Compact Wireless N USB Adapter (DWA-121), the world's smallest wireless USB adapter. About the size of a dime, the DWA-121 adapter connects a laptop or desktop computer to a Wi-Fi network at up to ...
For More Wireless Networking Adapter Info Click On The Blue Links Below

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G & N Networks Sale Price: $50.28
	Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter Sale Price: $36.99
	The Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter with "N" speed connects the Xbox 360 to Xbox Live via your wireless home network.

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G Networks Only Sale Price: $49.97
	With no cords to tie you down, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter is your connection to the fun of Xbox LIVE. Quickly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, game demos, game add-ons, and more...

	WiFi Wireless IEEE 802.11N/G/B WLAN 150Mbps Network Adapter USB2.0 Wireless Lan USB Adapter for Laptop Noteook Desktop PC Suport Vista/Windows 7(32bit & 64bit)/Linux Sale Price: $0.31
	1. Support 64/128-bit WEP, complies with 128 bit WPA standard(TKIP/AES), supports MIC, IV Expansion, Shared Key Authentication, IEEE 802.1X 2. supports 150/54/48/36/24/18/12/9/6/11/5.5/2/1 Mbps wireless LAN data transfer rates 3...

	AirLink101 AWLL6075 Wireless N Mini USB Adapter Sale Price: $10.00
	Extend the range of your current Airlink101 or other wireless network with new Wireless N Mini USB Adapter. The compact mini design brings you more flexibility and portability. No more hassle with complicated wireless security setup! Simply press the Easy Setup Button to connect to your encrypted wireless network...

	Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension Sale Price: $27.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	Wireless 300N USB Adapter Sale Price: Too low to display
	300 Mbps Wireless 802.11n, MIMO

	TP-Link TL-WN821N 300Mbps Wireless N USB Adapter Sale Price: Too low to display
	TP-Link TL-WN821N 300Mbps Wireless N USB Adapter & Infrastructure and Ad-Hoc Adopts MIMO technology for wireless rates of up to 300Mbps

	TP-Link TL-WN321G 54Mbps Wireless USB Adapter Sale Price: $8.00
	TP-Link TL-WN321G 54Mbps Wireless N USB Adapter & Wireless Transmit Power: 19dBm(MAX EIRP)

	External IEEE 802.11b/g,54Mbps,USB 2.0 Wifi Wireless LAN Adapter Sale Price: $0.31
	USB 802.11G 54M WIRELESS LAN Adapter (RT2571RT2070 Chipset),Brand New Product! Full 12 months warranty!Package Includes: 1 x Wi-Fi USB Adapter 1 x Driver CD 1 x Quick Start Guide For the driver, please install from the CD disk, if the CD cannot work,please contact us.

It is amazing how simple it is to establish a wireless home network in your home or office. I actually believe it is easier to set up a wireless network than it is to get the components out of those hard plastic cases.

However, you need to do some planning up front. The time spent in assessing your networking needs, do a little research about what is available to meet those needs and shop for the best values for the components you need will save you time and aggravation as you set it up.

Here is a list of items you may want to consider before you head off to the 'gadget' store:

What kind of computers will you be connecting to the network? Do you have PC's or Macs...or both?

Will the network be a hybrid mixed users of wireless and hard wired computers?

What wireless standard will you be installing? (See my article. "What Do I Need to Know about Choosing the Right Wireless Network?" for more about standards)

Computer Adapters - How will you be connecting each computer to the wireless network? Internal PC adapter? USB device? PC or PCMCIA Card?

Are you going to want to access a printer on the network? How many? How is the printer connected today? Does the printer need to be attached to a computer to be accessed or will you provide direct network access through a print server for your users?

What will be your Internet access point? Do you have a broadband (DSL/Cable modem) connection? Are you using dial-up? Is the Internet connection shared from a single computer or do you incorporate the use of a router?

How much money do you have budgeted for building the network?

Think about the future use of your network for a couple of minutes. Do you plan on running an entertainment media server for accessing MP3 music files, streaming video, downloading movies or television shows? What about moving to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone services to replace land-line services?

How will you secure your network? What steps do you need to take to make sure that your network prevents unauthorized access from your Internet connection, your file systems and keeping snoops (or worse!) out of your computers?

By taking a few minutes to write down these questions into categories, you can quickly organize your thoughts into question and answers. This will help you determine the type of components you will need to build what I call a 'Three-S' wireless network from the very start: Secure, Stable and Safe

I have been writing articles and publishing editorials for over 3 years covering a number of popular topics about everyday life. My interests as of late have involved temporary handicap access options and researching folding wheel chair options for a short term situation. Discover the innovations and choices I found about wheel chair ramp options and choices to provide for temporary access needs.

Many thanks for reading our Wireless Networking Adapter article

Wireless Network
NORTHWEST OCEANA COUNTY, MICHIGAN, RESIDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM VERIZON WIRELESS NETWORK ENHANCEMENTS
Detroit - PENTWATER, Mich.—Verizon Wireless has activated a new cell site in Pentwater, which enables more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; access the Internet; view high-quality videos; and download music, games and ringtones, while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
For More Wireless Network Info Click On The Blue Links Below

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G & N Networks Sale Price: $50.28
	Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter Sale Price: $36.99
	The Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter with "N" speed connects the Xbox 360 to Xbox Live via your wireless home network.

	WiFi Wireless IEEE 802.11N/G/B WLAN 150Mbps Network Adapter USB2.0 Wireless Lan USB Adapter for Laptop Noteook Desktop PC Suport Vista/Windows 7(32bit & 64bit)/Linux Sale Price: $0.31
	1. Support 64/128-bit WEP, complies with 128 bit WPA standard(TKIP/AES), supports MIC, IV Expansion, Shared Key Authentication, IEEE 802.1X 2. supports 150/54/48/36/24/18/12/9/6/11/5.5/2/1 Mbps wireless LAN data transfer rates 3...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G Networks Only Sale Price: $49.97
	With no cords to tie you down, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter is your connection to the fun of Xbox LIVE. Quickly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, game demos, game add-ons, and more...

	Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension Sale Price: $27.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	Alfa 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g USB Wireless WiFi Network Adapter With Original Alfa Screw-On Swivel 9dBi Rubber Antenna Sale Price: $34.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	Mad Catz MCB04704N/04/1 Wireless Gaming Network for Xbox 360 and PS3 Sale Price: $44.79
	Wireless broadband Internet connection for Xbox 360 and PS3. Fast and easy configuration . Quick setup button for seamless gaming console integration. Connects to console’s ethernet port. Compatible with 802...

	Wireless Network Adapter X360 Sale Price: $52.35
	TRANSFERS VIDEOS & MUSIC FROM MEDIA CENTER PC TO XBOX 360 GAMING SYSTEM ALLOWS WIRELESS CHATTING WITH FRIENDS PLAYING GAMES VIA XBOX LIVE & MORE DUAL-BAND 5 GHZ & 2.4 GHZ WIRELESS A/B/G HOME NETWORK COMPATIBLE POWERED BY XBOX 360 TO ELIMINATE ADAPTER CLUTTER STREAMS PHOTOS & MUSIC FROM MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP & RECORDED TV MOVIES & VIDEOS FROM MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP MEDIA CENTER-BASED PC

	Intel Intel 5300 Ultimate N Wi-Fi Link Wireless Network Adapter - Mini PCI Express - 450Mbps - IEEE 802.11n (draft), IEEE 802.11a/b/g Sale Price: $29.68
	The Intel 5300 Ultimate N Wi-Fi Link Wireless Network Adapter is family of IEEE 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N1 wireless network adapter that operate in both the 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz spectra. This adapter, available in both PCIe Mini Card and Half Mini Card form factor deliver up to 450 Mbps of bandwidth, in addition to providing a host of features that enhance today mobile lifestyle.

	Xbox Wireless Network Adapter MN740 Sale Price: $74.99
	Item #: L17223. Now you can add your Microsoft Xbox video game console to your high-speed wireless network. Wirelessly play on the Xbox Live service with anyone anywhere, with the assurance of the leading wireless security...

How to Protect your Wireless Network

Having a home wireless network means that you can say goodbye to ethernet cables forever and turn every room into your office. But if you donÂ’t have the right security half your neighbours could end up poaching your broadband.

Protecting your network is essential if you want to keep your broadband fast, private and hacker-free.

There are a few ways to protect yourself and there are also different levels of security, from basic to the more advanced. But once these settings have been saved you will be safe and secure and ready to log on wherever you are.

Wireless encryption

To protect yourself from hackers you need to set up a WEP or WPA Personal (WPA-PSK) key.

• WEP is a simple 64 or 128Bit encryption but offers limited security and is relatively easy to break
• WPA-PSK, in the forms of WPA-TKIP which offers better security and is backwards compatible with older routers and USB keys, and WPA2-AES which offers the best security and better wireless performance but which is not compatible with all older hardware

You can set up your encryption key when setting up your wireless router, and there should be an explanation of how to do so in your instruction manual.

Internet security

In addition to having an encryption key, you also need to install a few other things:

• A firewall
• Anti-virus software
• Anti-spyware software
• Anti-phishing software

You also need to ensure that any software that you have installed is always up-to-date. Hackers are continually updating their methods and developing new viruses so make sure that you regularly run live updates on the internet to make sure that your version of windows and your anti-virus software is also up-to-date.

Name your wireless

Giving your wireless signal a name, or a service set identifier (SSID), is an easy way of identifying it and can be set at the time of installation. Doing this will also allow you to enhance your security settings using wireless isolation.

Wireless isolation

This is a way of hiding your wireless network so that other people cannot “see you”, making your network more private. Once you have set your SSID then you can change the settings on your router to isolate your wireless, making you “invisible”.

Access lists

Access lists give an added level of security to your network. As well as having to have the password for your network, any userÂ’s computers would also have to be on the access list. They would be identified by the computerÂ’s MAC code (like a fixed address) via the router.

Now that you have set your security, you can rest assured that no one else is using your broadband or hacking into your files.

To find out more about wireless broadband visit BroadbandChoices.co.uk

Many thanks for reading our Wireless Network article

Wireless Network Adapter
VXi Corporation Unveils New Wireless Headset at the 2010 International CES
VXi's V100 Wireless Headset System Provides Increased Efficiency, Comfort and Mobility in the Office
For More Wireless Network Adapter Info Click On The Blue Links Below

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G & N Networks Sale Price: $50.28
	Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter Sale Price: $36.99
	The Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter with "N" speed connects the Xbox 360 to Xbox Live via your wireless home network.

	WiFi Wireless IEEE 802.11N/G/B WLAN 150Mbps Network Adapter USB2.0 Wireless Lan USB Adapter for Laptop Noteook Desktop PC Suport Vista/Windows 7(32bit & 64bit)/Linux Sale Price: $0.31
	1. Support 64/128-bit WEP, complies with 128 bit WPA standard(TKIP/AES), supports MIC, IV Expansion, Shared Key Authentication, IEEE 802.1X 2. supports 150/54/48/36/24/18/12/9/6/11/5.5/2/1 Mbps wireless LAN data transfer rates 3...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G Networks Only Sale Price: $49.97
	With no cords to tie you down, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter is your connection to the fun of Xbox LIVE. Quickly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, game demos, game add-ons, and more...

	Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension Sale Price: $27.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	Alfa 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g USB Wireless WiFi Network Adapter With Original Alfa Screw-On Swivel 9dBi Rubber Antenna Sale Price: $34.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	Wireless Network Adapter X360 Sale Price: $52.35
	TRANSFERS VIDEOS & MUSIC FROM MEDIA CENTER PC TO XBOX 360 GAMING SYSTEM ALLOWS WIRELESS CHATTING WITH FRIENDS PLAYING GAMES VIA XBOX LIVE & MORE DUAL-BAND 5 GHZ & 2.4 GHZ WIRELESS A/B/G HOME NETWORK COMPATIBLE POWERED BY XBOX 360 TO ELIMINATE ADAPTER CLUTTER STREAMS PHOTOS & MUSIC FROM MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP & RECORDED TV MOVIES & VIDEOS FROM MICROSOFT WINDOWS XP MEDIA CENTER-BASED PC

	AirLink101 AWLL6075 Wireless N Mini USB Adapter Sale Price: $10.00
	Extend the range of your current Airlink101 or other wireless network with new Wireless N Mini USB Adapter. The compact mini design brings you more flexibility and portability. No more hassle with complicated wireless security setup! Simply press the Easy Setup Button to connect to your encrypted wireless network...

	Xbox Wireless Network Adapter MN740 Sale Price: $74.99
	Item #: L17223. Now you can add your Microsoft Xbox video game console to your high-speed wireless network. Wirelessly play on the Xbox Live service with anyone anywhere, with the assurance of the leading wireless security...

	Intel Intel 5300 Ultimate N Wi-Fi Link Wireless Network Adapter - Mini PCI Express - 450Mbps - IEEE 802.11n (draft), IEEE 802.11a/b/g Sale Price: $29.68
	The Intel 5300 Ultimate N Wi-Fi Link Wireless Network Adapter is family of IEEE 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N1 wireless network adapter that operate in both the 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz spectra. This adapter, available in both PCIe Mini Card and Half Mini Card form factor deliver up to 450 Mbps of bandwidth, in addition to providing a host of features that enhance today mobile lifestyle.

Getting hooked up to the internet? One of the devices you are going to need is a router. A router or otherwise known as a "residential gateway" is very similar to a small computer. This device is responsible for taking information from the Network and "re-routing" all of it to your computer. Without this part your internet will not transmit through your computer.

There are very large routers for large businesses requiring lots of data to be sent very quickly to a large number of computers. There are also small stand alone routers, that are designed for small business or home use. Two types of routers available today are wireless and home networking. These routers allow many computers to work at the same time via wireless or connected with an Ethernet cord. If you are working with a home network router you will also need a network card or a wireless network adapter, for the wireless network.

Two major companies that produce routers are Cisco Systems and Linksys. Linksys was actually bought by Cisco in 2003, and is now part of the Cisco System company. Routers that are made for enterprise organization, business and ISP's are generally made by Cisco. These devices are very complex and require a qualified person to set up and control them. There is actually schooling provided by Cisco to do this.

The small business, home networking routers are made by Linksys. They are affordable, less complicated and easier to use devices, that are capable of helping with Internet access, printers, files, video data, games, and other applications via wireless or Ethernet connection.

After reading up on the router, understanding how your internet hook up will work, will be a little clearer to you.

Nanette Aniston is an authority in PC troubleshooting at http://www.pc-error-repair.org For a free driver scan visit http://www.driverscan.org and update all your drivers in 2 minutes.

Many thanks for reading our Wireless Network Adapter article

Wireless Networking
Quantenna Redefines Wireless Home Networking at CES 2010 With First Full-11n 4x4 MIMO Wi-Fi Product Offering
LAS VEGAS----Quantenna Communications, Inc., a leader in ultra-reliable Wi-Fi networking for whole-home entertainment, today announced it will be showcasing at CES 2010 the first wireless home networking chipsets that incorporate the entire range of Full-11n Wi-Fi features that are necessary to deliver multiple full HD video streams with 1080p quality anywhere in the home, while maintaining ...
For More Wireless Networking Info Click On The Blue Links Below

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G & N Networks Sale Price: $50.28
	Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard...

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter Sale Price: $36.99
	The Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter with "N" speed connects the Xbox 360 to Xbox Live via your wireless home network.

	Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter A/B/G Networks Only Sale Price: $49.97
	With no cords to tie you down, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Networking Adapter is your connection to the fun of Xbox LIVE. Quickly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, game demos, game add-ons, and more...

	SPECTEC SDIO Wireless LAN Networking Card WLAN 802.11b, Internet Connection for PDAs, Notebooks and PCs Sale Price: $33.02
	Wireless LAN Networking

	WiFi Wireless IEEE 802.11N/G/B WLAN 150Mbps Network Adapter USB2.0 Wireless Lan USB Adapter for Laptop Noteook Desktop PC Suport Vista/Windows 7(32bit & 64bit)/Linux Sale Price: $0.31
	1. Support 64/128-bit WEP, complies with 128 bit WPA standard(TKIP/AES), supports MIC, IV Expansion, Shared Key Authentication, IEEE 802.1X 2. supports 150/54/48/36/24/18/12/9/6/11/5.5/2/1 Mbps wireless LAN data transfer rates 3...

	Intellinet Wireless 300N Access Point with 2x 3dBi Detachable Dipole Antennas (524728) Sale Price: Too low to display
	Wireless networking with three times the speed and five times the flexibility.The INTELLINET NETWORK SOLUTIONS Wireless 300N Access Point is the latest in wireless networking. Taking advantage of new technology, a wireless network can now see greatly enhanced network speeds...

	AirLink101 AWLL6075 Wireless N Mini USB Adapter Sale Price: $10.00
	Extend the range of your current Airlink101 or other wireless network with new Wireless N Mini USB Adapter. The compact mini design brings you more flexibility and portability. No more hassle with complicated wireless security setup! Simply press the Easy Setup Button to connect to your encrypted wireless network...

	Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension Sale Price: $27.99
	The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution...

	TP-Link TL-WR541G 54 Mbps Extended Range Wireless Router with 1x 3dBi Antenna Sale Price: $21.99
	TP-Link TL-WR541G 54Mbps Extended Range Wireless Router with 1x 3dBi Antenna

	WiFi Wireless Networking Adapter Network adapter for Microsoft Xbox 360 Sale Price: $46.99
	Features: High-performance design and the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, well synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system. Easily transferring videos and music to your Xbox 360 system from your PC, chatting with your friends, playing games via Xbox Live, and more all without the clutter of wires...

WEP, or Wired Equivalent Privacy, is the name of the original technology for securing a wireless network. The name is at the very best commendable but at the very least extremely misleading. The technology never came close to the goal of securing wireless networks to a level that could be considered 'equivalent' to its hard-wired cousin.

WEP is a key-matching encryption protocol that uses a pass key for every client that wants access to the wireless network. This key must be an identical match in order to be granted a right to use the network resources. If this key does not exactly match, then the user is simply unable to login to the network.

The technology itself is not inherently bad. It is the way that WEP is implemented. It is fairly easy for someone unauthorized to gain access to the network by figuring out the network key. Once this key is obtained, they can login as any other person with permission to use the network granting them access to the resources or receiving all the information sent across the wireless network and even decipher it without you knowing that they are there!

Any snoop with a personal computer with wireless ability can download easy-to-use hacker tools and utilities that will enable anyone, not just a sophisticated hacker, to gain access to a WEP protected network.

The supposed and assumed strength of WEP is in the pass key. It can be up to 128-bits in length thus giving the impression that it will be very difficult for anyone to guess the pass-key. Technically, this is correct. It would be virtually impossible for someone to 'guess' this key. But as stated, there are software utilities that can 'sniff' the air for wireless signals, analyzed the type of network, intercept the stream of data and decrypt the pass key without any user intervention.

Some say that utilizing WEP with another tool included on my wireless devices such as a MAC address inclusion/exclusion option will give you the added level of security needed. Again, this is another assumption gone wrong. Just like the software tools that will decipher the pass key, there are utilities that can generate false MAC addresses to overcome this feature.

Should you use WEP? Well, I guess that if you are choosing using WEP versus absolutely no security, it is better than using nothing. And I mean barely better. A good way to think about this is to compare your home's front entrance. You have a choice between nothing at all and the doorway standing wide open - this is your wireless network with no security protection active. WEP would be similar to you having a screen door that swings closed but has no latch, no lock. Agreed, the doorway is better off now than it was without anything at all. Maybe critters cannot get in but I think you will agree that it is anything but secure.

And there is a better way = WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) discussed in my next article...

I have been writing articles and publishing commentary for several years that cover a number of popular topics of interest from different walks of life. Recently, my interests has turned to remodeling my old office into a bedroom for the kids. I have been considering replacing their old twin beds with a twin full bunk bed so they can stay in the same room but have plenty of room for their stuff. In the process, I found all kinds of information about different types, brands, shapes and sizes of childrens bunk beds for their new room.

Many thanks for reading our Wireless Networking article