Can Faraday Cages Tame Wi-Fi?

mrraven writes "An article at TechWorld discusses the increased need for wireless network security. One possible solution to this problem is the use of building-wide Faraday cages to block the wireless signal from 'leaking'." From the article: "Small installations of RF shielding don't have to be expensive, and the basic concept of a Faraday cage can be extended to all kinds of small everyday objects. Leather wallets sandwiched with a conductive RF-shielding layer can prevent RFID scanners from reading personal information implanted in everything from RFID-enabled access control cards to some credit cards; they're widely available for as little as US$15. For those favoring a more DIY route, several Web sites have information on how to make an RFID-blocking wallet with duct tape and aluminum foil."

Comments

Faraday Cages will work

[jmauro]

Only if you don't want cell phone coverage or look out side. I work in a building that is EM sheilded using a Faraday cage. It was designed to test new radios so you didn't want outside signals coming in to mess up the test. Needless to say a all-metal no windowless office sucks. You have to go out side to make a cell call and when the AC breaks you're screwed because the place turns into an oven with no windows to open. It's a nice idea, but I doubt most wouldn't like to work in such a place 24-7. I sure don't.

Re:Faraday Cages will work

[JesseL]

A wire screen tends to block EM with a wavlength greater than about twice the size of the holes in the mesh. Since the visible spectrum is in the few hundred nanometer range, and most RF communication happens at wavelengths over 5 centimeters, a screen is a very viable option.