out there with nothing better to do than see what you've got to share. Security There are a few methods for securing a wireless network, which generally fall into two categories: authentication and encryption. Some of these methods include: MAC ID filtering MAC ID filtering is a valid authentication method for small networks or where someone can be dedicated to its upkeep. Simply put, the MAC address of the wireless host's network interface card (NIC) must be added to a list of approved MAC addresses. When the wireless node attempts to associate with the WAP, this list is referenced. If the MAC address is not on the list, the client will not be granted access to the wireless network. This is a rudimentary security measure that doesn't scale well, and is generally not used in larger enterprise networks. WEP stands for Wired Equivalent Privacy, which is a form of encryption designed for wireless networks. As its name implies, this security was designed to make wireless as secure as using wire-based networks. Unfortunately, WEP is SO insecure that commonly available tools can crack WEP in minutes. WEP is the simplest form of wireless security and is accomplished by the WAP and client each knowing a relatively small (40- or 128-bit) shared key. It should not be used in modern networks unless you're securing something that doesn't need security or you live in the woods and you're lazy. WEP uses a static key that is preprogrammed into the WAP and each client that needs to associate with it. This method of security is barely a step above simple clear-text passwords, due to a fundamental flaw in the WEP protocol. Though WEP-protected wireless networks are encrypted, any- one can download free tools that will crack the encryption in minutes, if not sooner. At my house, if someone were to try to steal my wireless, they would need to be inside my fence. Inside my fence, my wireless security consists of two 140-pound dogs with bad attitudes and little pa- tience for intruders. Of course, that assumes you got past the sen- tr