Tech Q&A

Q: We bought a second computer. I’d like to network the two machines wirelessly, but I’m concerned about security. I don’t want someone surfing on my system, or stealing files. Can wireless be made secure?

A: Makers of wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) networking gear have gotten their act together. Today’s security standard, known as WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access, second generation), is unbreakable, at least so far. Follow the equipment maker’s instructions and you will be safe. An earlier security system, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), is useless. It can be broken in minutes. Anyone who has WEP should upgrade to WPA2, pronto.