If you run a wireless network, either at home or in the office, it is vital to ensure that the right security is in place.

To do this, log into your router (check the manufacturer’s website for instructions on how to do this) and look for the security settings.

Now check that the encryption is set to at least WPA ­ the older WEP standard is no longer considered secure. While here, be sure also to set a long and tricky-to-guess password (or ‘passphrase’).

If you want, you can also use the router’s security settings to block wireless internet access to machines other than those specified.

Computeractive staff