Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for enhancing the security of a computer network by automatically preventing unauthorized bridging to the network. In several embodiments, software operative on the network allows activation of only a single communications adapter while inactivating all other communications adapters installed on each computer authorized to access the network.

Abstract: A method is presented for automatically providing a secure connection between a wireless network including a server and server software installed thereon and a device seeking access to the wireless network. In response to an initial request for access to the wireless network by the device, a software agent is installed on the device which gathers identification information from the device and prompts the user to provide authentication information which is transmitted to the server. If successfully verified, the server stores the identification and authentication information in an authorized access list, provides a unique encryption key to the requesting device and grants the authenticated user and identified device access to the wireless network. The method also includes procedures for when authentication fails and for granting subsequent access to an authenticated device and user.