Security and Privacy in a Networked World/Networking

NOTE: This topic makes use of Wikipedia articles to provide the basic understanding of the matters. These articles deal with technology and are not much disputed, having reached the common knowledge stage. They also provide some good links for further study under the reference sections.

Basics

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_network

Addressing in IPv4

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IPv4

Typical network settings in workstations/laptops

Today, most ordinary users connect to Internet via either broadband DSL or cable networks, or via various wireless networks. Earlier technologies having fallen out of use include modem and ISDN connections.

Most connections are made using the DHCP protocol which obtains the connection data automatically from a server - thus the computer user does not need to set up anything in order to connect. However, in some places, static connections are used that need the following data to be entered:

• IP
• netmask
• gateway
• name server

Network security: some things to consider

• turn off everything not in use (especially server systems)
• switch network off when not in use
• In case of home WiFi (also for office systems meant for internal use), change the default name of the network to something unassuming and use the WPA2 encryption with good passwords. Providing a free WiFi service for e.g. guests is a good idea, provided that it is properly managed - a "fire and forget" WiFi may however result in a lot of trouble.

Additional reading and links

• LAN 101: Networking Basics. http://www.tomshardware.com/print/local-area-network-wi-fi-wireless,reviews-3020.html
• KEHOE, B. Zen and the Art of Internet. http://www.cs.indiana.edu/docproject/zen/zen-1.0_toc.html (a classic document, but partially out of date for now)
• KOZIEROK, C. M. The TCP/IP Guide. http://www.tcpipguide.com/