If you turn off your PC when you're not using it, nobody can get into it anyway. If you're concerned about people using your network, there are a few easy things you can do.


Availability: When not in use, turn off some or all of your equipment. Most importantly, the PC with sensitive info. When on your PC but not using the network, disable your NIC interface with the little icon in the taskbar.

Limit reception: Put the WAP in the basement instead of the top floor of the house. This should seriously minimize the usable signal area by directing the line of sight radiation to a cone shaped pattern directed straight up from the basement.

Enable 32 bit WEP: Although this method is relatively easy to break, it will take significant effort and time on the hackers part. Like a deadbolt lock, it will deter the lazy hacker.

Firewall: Use your firewall on the router and your PC. This will probably require a little technical knowledge. Firewalls may interfere with certain actions you wish to do on the internet. A tight firewall will probably need to be tweaked occasionally.

Updates: Keep your OS and Web Browser updated with all the latest security patches.