When you start Windows NT, NTDETECT searches for the pointing device (usually a mouse). In the course of this process, data is sent to the serial (COM) ports. If a serial mouse is detected, Windows NT disables the port so a device driver for the mouse can load instead. If a device is not detected, Windows NT disables the port. A disabled COM port does not display any information in Control Panel Ports.
Via [support.microsoft.com]
Continue reading ‘How To Disable Detection Of Devices On Serial Ports’
Archive for July, 2001
As more companies start to deploy wireless networking, important security aspects are often overlooked. Wireless networking was initially marketed towards home consumers and specialized applications, but was limited by low throughput speeds. As the technology matured, networking standards were introduced to ensure interoperability between vendors, and greater speeds were obtained. Driven by both the demands of the users and the flexibility offered by wireless networks, businesses started to deploy wireless networks in areas that were difficult to provide wired-based networking topologies, such as warehouses and conference rooms. Unfortunately, due to the ease of wireless deployment, and the freshness of the technology, many network engineers do not realize the risks associated with operating a wireless network. Even if proper precautions are taken to ensure a secure wireless network environment, there is still the risk of a user purchasing their own wireless Access Point (AP) or base stations and installing it on the network unbeknownst to the IT staff.
Via [securityfocus.com]
Continue reading ‘Basic Security Mechanisms for Wireless Networks’
It’s hard to tell whether these things are a threat or an opportunity for ISPs. I’m talking about community wireless networks using inexpensive 802.11b radios and antennas operating in the 2.4 GHz spectrum band, and possibly other license-free bands.
Via [isp-planet.com]
Continue reading ‘Wireless Freenets’
IBM Research has demonstrated the industry’s first automated auditing tool that can monitor 802.11 wireless networks and collect security-related information, allowing system administrators to take proper actions to improve network security. The Wireless Security Auditor, a prototype application running on Linux, enables network administrators to find vulnerable access points by monitoring and analyzing them in real time, and ensuring they are either corrected or removed so they no longer pose a security threat to the company network.
Via [research.ibm.com]
Continue reading ‘IBM Research Demonstrates Industry’s First Auditing Tool For Wireless Network Security’
Not long ago, when wireless networking was new and rare, security was an afterthought. The reason? The scarcity of 802.11b cards acted as a form of back-handed security. If no one had an 802.11b card, outsiders couldn’t very well scan your setup, right? Now, however, that’s changed. Wireless gear is readily available–and cheap–so that almost anyone with a PC can afford a Wi-Fi network card, making security more vital.
Via [zdnet.com.com]
Continue reading ‘The War Over 802.11x Security’
Before emailing me to ask for new features and bug fixes, please bear in mind that I’m writing this in my spare time. My family and job come first.
Continue reading ‘A Note From Marius Milner’
NetStumbler is a Windows Utility for AP Mapping (a.k.a. War Driving, Lan Mapping). Currently the software is still in development. If you would like a pre-release copy please email the author Marius Milner.
Continue reading ‘What Is NetStumbler?’
