Airport security

[dust]

Is the default network security settings on Panther sufficient for most public WiFi hotspots? I dont fancy the idea that the sysadmin of Globe/PLDT has access to data. Also does the computer name Mac (ex. Dust's Computer) show up on a WiFi network?

[hoho]

Originally posted by dust
Is the default network security settings on Panther sufficient for most public WiFi hotspots? I dont fancy the idea that the sysadmin of Globe/PLDT has access to data. Also does the computer name Mac (ex. Dust's Computer) show up on a WiFi network?

The default should be fine for most people. The sysad will only have access to whatever data you send through the network that is not encrypted with SSL or other forms of encryption.

As a general rule, don't access sensitive data when logged onto public networks, and you'll be fine. That just means no going to the bank website.

Your "Computer name" will appear in the DHCP client table. If you put something in the DHCP client ID, that will show up for places that require it, but for places that use low-end WAPs, only your computer name (also known as your host name) will show up.

FWIW, I've changed my computer name to "Generic".

[Maverick]

you could use a personal firewall to restrict access to your mac. :2cents:

[directX]

Mac OS X's built-in firewall is enough -- just make sure that it is on.

As for accessing sites using public WiFi hotspots, make sure that you only access them via VPN or via SSL (may be HTTP, FTP or VNC). Don't use telnet.

[Maverick]

Originally posted by directX
Mac OS X's built-in firewall is enough -- just make sure that it is on.

As for accessing sites using public WiFi hotspots, make sure that you only access them via VPN or via SSL (may be HTTP, FTP or VNC). Don't use telnet.

HTTP or FTP isn't secure... which is why they created HTTPS and SFTP

[directX]

Originally posted by Maverick

Originally posted by directX
Mac OS X's built-in firewall is enough -- just make sure that it is on.

As for accessing sites using public WiFi hotspots, make sure that you only access them via VPN or via SSL (may be HTTP, FTP or VNC). Don't use telnet.

HTTP or FTP isn't secure... which is why they created HTTPS and SFTP

Yes, it is why I mentioned that it is VIA SSL!:P

[Maverick]

right... :nerd:

didn't notice you mentioned ssl... just glanced at it quickly...

[dust]

So standard web browsing via http, Y!M, iChat & IRC are already safe or do I need to turn on OSX's firewall? Am renaming my ibook to *expletive* so the sysadmin wouldnt dare sniff my precious.

[directX]

Originally posted by dust
So standard web browsing via http, Y!M, iChat & IRC are already safe or do I need to turn on OSX's firewall? Am renaming my ibook to *expletive* so the sysadmin wouldnt dare sniff my precious.

First of all, they are not safe to start with. However, it is ok if there are no sensitive and confidential information being transmitted. If you are, however, conducting business or entering credit card information or any personal information for that matter, I recommend doing it only over SSL.

Turn ON the firewall ALWAYS. Does not degrade the machine's performance anyway but keeps your computer secure from intrusion.

[dust]

Originally posted by directX
Turn ON the firewall ALWAYS. Does not degrade the machine's performance anyway but keeps your computer secure from intrusion.

Thanks I will do that. I guess having routers serving as firewall kinda spoiled me.