Technology & Learning - September 2007 - (Page 43)

Mac users might find it necessary to use WEP encryption instead of WPA. I chose a medium-length shared key (about 10 characters); after clicking the save button, a message came up saying that my wireless service would be interrupted and reconfiguration might be needed. I clicked OK, the new security configuration was changed, and I went to boot up a laptop to see if I could get online. My Dell laptop immediately picked up the network, just as it always had. However, when I connected (having to enter the WPA shared key I created) a message saying “limited or no connectivity” appeared. But within a minute or so, the strength changed to full wireless connectivity, and I was online and fully protected. Key 1. The dropdown menu next to each key listed three options: 64 bit, 128 bit, or 256 bit. I opted for the 64-bit level, and entered a five-character code. I then retested the PC and Mac laptops with WEP now enabled on my wireless router. Both PC and Mac connected successfully. Other Security Considerations Firewalls A firewall (software or hardware that controls who gets into your computer or network) is an important piece of the security puzzle. With a typical firewall, you decide who can communicate with your system. When I installed iTunes, for example, my firewall informed me that the program was trying to connect to the Internet, and asked my permission to do so. Public Wi-Fi Another whole area related to security is public wireless hotspots—available anywhere from your local library or hotel lobby to Starbucks and McDonald’s—that provide access to the Internet. Although these locations make it easy for you to get online (sometimes for free, sometimes for a fee), there are some basic precautions you should take when connecting. For example, you might want to forego doing your online banking or shopping over a public wireless network. I’m not too worried when sitting in my apartment, but a public hotspot could be a draw for a bad guy with a “sniffer,” hardware or software that can intercept wireless signals. Mac vs. PC Now to try a Mac PowerBook G4. It too picked up the network, but when I tried to access it I received a “There was an error joining the network” message. I rebooted the Mac, the wireless router, and my desktop computer. Still, I saw the same message. What went wrong? I called Verizon DSL and was told there are incompatibilities between Macs and WPA encryption, so WEP was recommended instead. From the Westell security configuration screen, I chose WEP and a window appeared featuring space to enter a series of four keys (see graphic above). Verizon said I should leave the Authentication Type set for Open System, and that I only needed to use Today’s digital generation has access to music, video, images, information and other people on demand. They create MySpace personas, YouTube video clips, personal blogs and podcasts. They communicate with cell phones and instant messaging. They hang out online—often on social networking web sites. It is no wonder that this generation expects personalization from education too. HP’s new guide to creating digital learning environments will help those in your district see the future of teaching and learning and show them how to begin to create that environment today. Download this new eBook at: http://www.techlearning.com /diglearning Technology & Learning September 2007 | 43 http://www.techlearning.com/diglearning http://www.techlearning.com/diglearning http://www.techlearning.com/diglearning

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Technology & Learning - September 2007 Contents Editor’s Desk News & Trends Product Guide Reviews Getting It Wrong Cover Story: SchoolBiz School CIO Higher Ed Integration How To What’s New Bottom Line

Technology & Learning - September 2007

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