Step 5 - Test and Use

Once everything is plugged in, configured, and running, then it is time to do a little bit of testing to make sure this new network actually does what you want it to do.

If you're on the internet, then you're doing great! Ideally, you took the time to adjust the antenna on your roof to maximize signal strength while you were configuring the bridge. But sometimes things change, wind and weather could move your antenna, or a tree could grow into your line-of-sight over time. It would be a good plan to expect a small amount of maintenance and checking up on the hardware every now and again. This will help avoid outages later when you might need internet access.

Security of your new network

If you followed the plan and installed a wireless broadband router, you may still need to adjust the settings on that unit to make sure your network is secure. Consult your router's manual or documentation for help with that, or try a Google search.

At the very least you can be darn sure you are protected from the evils of an un-firewalled broadband connection. Your router takes care of this, and most likely there is another firewall on the public hotspot you have connected your bridge to. And the bridge probably does some firewalling, too.

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