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Author Topic: Is MAC filtering really worth it?  (Read 4007 times)

Flagman

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Is MAC filtering really worth it?
« on: October 04, 2010, 06:11:03 PM »

I've always enabled MAC filtering on my network, thinking that it gives me an added level of security (however minor) along with WPA2.  I've recently read some opinions from people who don't really think it's worth the trouble - one guy stated "it probably takes longer to set up than it would take a knowledgable person to circumvent". 
It certainly does add a certain hassle factor, especially when adding new devices.  If it's really of limited benefit, then what's the point? I'd like to hear what people here think.
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EddieZ

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Re: Is MAC filtering really worth it?
« Reply #1 on: October 05, 2010, 04:53:32 AM »

It is not really protection, looking at the easy ways it can be circumvented. But it will act as a first obstacle, hindering people from connecting. Consider it a small extra lock. But you can do without when you use WPA2.
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war59312

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Re: Is MAC filtering really worth it?
« Reply #2 on: October 11, 2010, 11:19:39 AM »

Basically I'd only recommend it if for some reason you can not use WPA encryption or at least some other strong encryption (if WEP is only choice then yes I'd do MAC filtering and hide SID along with WEP, most newbie hackers will just move on then to the next *****).

It's really just to stop honest people from accidentally connecting to you. Same with hiding the SID. Neither stops the bad guy!

Worth my time setting up when using encryption? No! No one can accidentally connect to you when you enable encryption.

Bottom line is that if you use encryption it's not worth it!

But if encryption is not an option and I'd say do everything you can to make it harder for the bad guys and then most will just skip you move on to the next easier target. Unless you got something to hide (in that case you should NOT be using consumer products!  :P)?
« Last Edit: October 11, 2010, 11:22:41 AM by war59312 »
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