Security
Over the last year, there have been concerns about potential security risks associated with wireless technology. Two Myths are typically raised, both of which can be solved if users take the appropriate precautions.
Myth 1 - Wireless networks may not be secure and could potentially allow
hackers to break into corporate networks and steal information or do damage.
Azure’s public high-speed wireless Internet service provides access to
the Internet only. It does not provide direct access to corporate networks.
For a user to access their corporate network from an Azure Hotspot they need
to do so via the Internet. Therefore, to ensure the security of information
transmitted, users should establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN) every time
they logon. This creates an encrypted secure tunnel from the user’s computer
to their corporate network. VPNs can be established using a simple piece of
software available from many computer vendors. For further information speak
to your company’s IT department or vendor.
Myth 2 - A public wireless solution can allow a hacker to access a fellow user’s computer and steal information or do damage.
Azure uses several mechanisms to ensure the security of each user’s computer and confidentiality of traffic over the Internet:
- Every user’s logon information (including credit card details during transmission) is protected by SSL encryption
- Azure’s network uses computer hardware which is configured to prevent peer-to-peer communication. No network traffic is relayed within a Hotspot thus preventing any hacking from one computer to another. Notwithstanding, Azure still recommends that users disable or password protect all shared drives.
- The Azure network utilizes Firewall protection against the Internet.
- The Azure network supports VPN passthrough enabling users to establish an
encrypted tunnel from their computer to their corporate VPN server.