Is it safe to play online on an open wifi network?

Temi_D · 16 Feb 2011 at 14:46

Hi all. At uni there is an open network almost everywhere and students can use it if they log in with their ID. Are there any security risks in using it to play online multiplayer games? i.e ut3, BFBC2 etc...

Can my laptop be compromised in any way? Thanks

Angelos_n · 16 Feb 2011 at 14:48

its not open if you log in with you ID is it, if by open you mean anyone can connect then it should still be fine. my uni has a system like this where, even though the netowrk is open you must authenticate with your ID with a radius server and a VPN and from then all transmissions are encrypted anyway

Temi_D · 16 Feb 2011 at 14:56

I mean open as in anyone can connect to the wifi network but you need to log in with your uni username and password to be able to use the internet

PistolPete · 16 Feb 2011 at 15:19

There is a risk when you connect to ANY network you don't control, wired networks as well as wireless.

As long as you are aware of the possible risks, keep your firewall on (Windows Vista/7 in Public mode) and make sure you are vigilant about security certs on secure sites etc, you'll be fine. I'm sure gaming logins are SSL'd anyway.

Gaz1988 · 16 Feb 2011 at 22:39

i'll be surprised if the uni firewall lets you through to play games anywho.