Wireless Keyboards - Security Question!

[Friction]

Hello all,

Strange one this, sorry if this is a stupid question!

I have been considering getting a wireless keyboard and mouse setup for a while now, and naturally been doing a little research into things. I'm interested mainly as due to certain circumstances I'm finding my current setup up quite awkward to use and am in desperate need of a setup with a little more comfort.

Now aside from the complaints that wireless kit is not as good for games (something I do regularly on this PC - FPS games and the odd RTS and Online RPG) due to lagging and other claims - something I cannot comment on as I have never used wireless kit before - Are there any other issues to consider using wireless kit?

Most speifically are there any issues with security?

I've read some accounts where people say they picked up what other people were typing who lived down the road etc, despite the kits being of limited range etc.

Obviously I am concerned about typing personal documents, various messenger programs, email, and of course online shopping (passwords etc) - I'd like to keep my stuff private of course!

I understand a Bluetooth setup would give me greater security, but I sadly lack bluetooth money I will however be getting a microsoft branded product.

Is there any validity in my concerns? Or am I simply self auditioning myself for some new conspiracy theory film?

Lastly, anyone with experience of wireless kit - in games specifically and otherwise, could you please give me some impressions.

Cheers

[Ginger Tosser]

I've been using a Microsoft Wireless Desktop Elite + Mouse for around 6 six without any problem. As for security the wireless reception wont go through internal partitions so i'm guessing you'd be safe.

As for lag, i've heard wireless mice can be a problem. But i've used it with half life without and noticeable faults. Only time i notice the lag is when the PC first boots up. Once the communication with the reciever starts it seems to be fine. I did try a cheapy wireless keyboard/mouse from staples for ?20 and thought that was ****e.

[Friction]

That's exactly the kit I would be looking to get Ginger
EDIT - except it's this one Clicky I think it's basically the same gear just a newer release?!


Did you mean 6 months in your post?

I realise I am probably being really paranoid about it, just I worry that my private files and typings won't be private if you know what I mean. My PC is in a corner and the reciever will be buried there so it should be OK.

In honestly I wouldn't mind the bluetooth one for peace of mind, but even then bluetooth can be hacked etc.

Is it right to assume if there were problems we would know about it by now? I did read about a MS critical update for XP that did something or other to benefit wireless kit?! Can't remember what though

Is it also correct to assume that wireless technology has come on a fair bit since the early days and many of these supposed problems are just sorta teething problems and are to be expected as with any new innovation?

Thanks for the advice though

[Ciaran]

I've had that kit for over a year with no problems. I play FPS every day without any lag or erratic behaviour.

The kit partially works about 5 foot away so I can't see anyone picking up a signal outside of the room.

[Ginger Tosser]

Did you mean 6 months in your post?

Yes

[Friction]

Thanks for all the info!

Presumably if it doesn't work too far away, it wouldn't go through walls or anything like that?

Also as it is RF whats it like for interference? My computer is close to my television is it likely to cause any problems? My monitor is about 2 feet away from my television - though I could get the reciever around 4 feet away.

I know I keep asking about it, but is this really so secure? I've looked at various reviews and all have said good things, and I have searched numerous forums for any potential security issues and problems and have found none.

Cheers for all the help so far!

[Ciaran]

Before you said it I had never heard of anyone picking a signal from a wireless keyboard and mouse. Even if someone could/wanted to they would need specalised equipment. The standard wireless card of bluetooth adapter is not going to do it.

[Friction]

Before you said it I had never heard of anyone picking a signal from a wireless keyboard and mouse. Even if someone could/wanted to they would need specalised equipment. The standard wireless card of bluetooth adapter is not going to do it.

Ciaran have you got MS set that Ginger has and I am considering? Or do you have the (slightly more secure) Bluetooth one?

As I mentioned I read stuff about HP branded kit being picked up by neighbours down the road, and even simple things like a combi boiler coming on in a house having an effect on performance?!

I guess also hearing about how wireless networks can be quite easily hacked into, it got me thinking about could wireless mice and keyboards be jacked into too!

[Ciaran]

I think there both the same set. But this is the page I ordered off: http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/...237700-1019820

Currently around my desk I have a mobile phone, cordless phone, wireless router, wireless card, PSP, tv and a small amp for my 5.1. I get not interference at all between all these devices and everything works as it should.

I really think you will have no problem with security.

[Friction]

Thanks for that Ciaran,

That's the link I will order from too (posted the same on in an earlier post).

I've not got as many gadgets around as you, but if you have no problems then I shouldn't either!

The only thing that might cause me a problem is my Bit Char-G car which runs on 27mhz

I realise I am probably worrying more than a need to about the security of it, just I read a few things and set some alarms off in my head

I guess if there really was a problem with security we would all know about it by now - these things rarely remain a secret?!