eircom takes all issues relating to security of its products and services very seriously and it is our absolute priority to help our customers optimise wireless security on their broadband connections.

eircom distributes Netopia 2247 wireless modems to broadband customers enabled with wireless security by default. The security standard used is called WIFI Protected Access (WPA) and provides customers with a simple and easy-to-use level of security.

However, older versions of the Netopia 2247 and 3347 modems distributed by eircom from April 2004 to July 2008 were enabled with Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) security

For ease of use, a default WEP key was provided based on the serial number of each modem, although customers can change this WEP key manually. This was the same method of security provided by other international operators using Netopia routers.

In 2007 eircom was made aware of a potential wireless access security issue with the Netopia wireless modems. A possible vulnerability with the standard configuration or default setting of the WEP protocol was identified. This vulnerability makes it possible for a person with an advanced working knowledge of encryption and coding techniques to illegally access an eircom customer’s wireless internet connection. However, when a customer generates their own unique WEP Key or password and does not use the default setting, this security risk is removed. If you have a Netopia modem with WEP security, eircom recommends that you go to the the Wireless Security Support Page and take the necessary steps to increase your level of wireless security.

If you have a different make and model of WIFI modem eircom recommends that you refer to the product documentation and take any necessary steps to maximise your wireless security.

Netopia 2247NWG

Netopia 3347NWG

For more information, please go to the wireless security support page.