Concerns have been expressed about the security of wireless technology in general and whether it exposes users to greater risks of identity theft. From a technological standpoint, a wireless network is just as secure as a typical wired network. Data is processed in a similar fashion, with data packets flowing through the network and onto the Internet. Regardless of technology (wireless, cable or DSL), there is always a potential for users of the same network to see the data packets of other users.
In terms of wireless, malicious individuals do have the ability to intercept data packets in the air. However, encryption techniques and Virtual Private Networks (or VPNs) can be used to help encrypt the data and make the data packets useless to malicious individuals.
The Wireless Washtenaw network consists of two fundamentally different technologies.
2.4 GHz Network: An urban Wi-Fi 802.11b/g network operating at the 2.4 GHz frequency will be deployed in select urban communities. Users will be able access the network from outdoor locations, such as cafes and parks. The only equipment required to access the outdoor network is a standard 802.11b/g network card. The signal is expected to penetrate into the first floor of residential and commercial structures. However, users will likely require an indoor radio, or Customer Premise Equipment (CPE), to assure a quality service.
5.7 GHz Network: A Pre-WiMax 802.11a network operating at the 5.7 GHz frequency will be deployed in the rural and suburban communities. This technology broadcasts the Wireless Washtenaw signal over greater distances than the 2.4 GHz network, allowing 20/20 Communications to serve the entire Washtenaw County community. To assure a secured service, a CPE is required to access the 802.11a signal.
Both the 2.4 GHz and 5.7 GHz network will offer a secure, encrypted connection to the Internet when the Consumer Premise Equipment (CPE) is utilized. The CPE works as a bridge between a computer and a broadcasting point and has the capability of securing data transmissions.
However, there is no direct encryption for the 2.4 GHz signal when utilized in a roaming capacity. This includes anytime the network is used without a CPE, such as at a park or café. Users will be still able to utilize Secure Socket Layer (or SSL), which is an encryption program used for web browsing, e-mail and other types of data transfer. Most financial and commercial institutions use SSL to protect sensitive information during data transfers, such as log-in credentials and credit card numbers. You can tell if you are on an SSL website by looking for a security lock on your web browser. You will also see “https” as opposed to “http” at the beginning of the web address. Users who require more security than SSL will be able to use a Virtual Private Network if they so desire.
Additional information to help protect yourself: