Techworld: Encryption needed for wireless broadband

Web users deciding to take advantage of wireless broadband services should make sure they use encryption to protect their link from hackers, says an expert website.

The Wi-Fi Alliance has developed a new wireless service called Wi-Fi Direct (WD), which is designed to facilitate peer-to-peer connections more easily and potentially make VoIP solutions more effective, but specialist technology website Techworld has warned increased use of Wi-Fi throws up pressing security questions.

John Dunne, editor of Techworld magazine, said a failure to understand the technicalities of Wi-Fi can lead to security vulnerabilities, while mingling a range of wireless devices could create more opportunities for hackers and cyber criminals.

Mr Dunne said: "If you're going to set a link up between any two devices in any context then the wireless has to be encrypted."

He added he considers it odd encryption is not used more frequently as making and breaking encryption was one of the main intended functions when the first computers were designed.

WD technology will enable web users to achieve peer-to-peer connectivity without using a conventional network, according to the Wi-Fi Alliance.