Those trusting souls who don't believe in layers of security to protect their data may want to avoid wireless networking. Because of the medium used, wireless forces layers of security onto you because you must protect the network (wireless transmissions) as well as your network resources.
Examples of layered security you may well implement, include:
* Firewall on your wireless router
* Encrypted message traffic
* Directional control of wireless access points to keep radio waves from leaking to the world
* Unique usernames and passwords on all network resources
* Physical protection of servers and computers
* Extra security to laptops used wirelessly when traveling
All of these options make sense on their own, and they make more sense when used in combination. Saying layered security is just shorthand for saying multiple security protections in place.
Be prepared. When wireless networking works, it's wonderful and simple and joyous. When wireless networking doesn't work, which is much of the time at the beginning, it's painful and aggravating and horrible. Wireless networking gets weirder and crankier as you enable security, so get a grip on your temper before you start.
There are concepts in here you may never have seen before, such as encrypting network traffic and aiming radio waves. That's okay, because you've never tried sending your data connections winging through the air before. Depending on your network's use and the data you have to protect, you may take a relaxed attitude or spend your time anxious and nervous as you wonder who's listening in to your network. Of the two, I suggest you lean away from relaxed and more toward nervous, but only as far as alert and informed.
Buy the book on Amazon here.