Usability and security support offered through ADSL router user manuals

摘要

ADSL routers are often used as either the target or the means for cyber crime. Many ADSL router threats could be mitigated through the effective use of inbuilt security controls and firmware updates available from vendors. Unfortunately, end-users typically lack the technical expertise to correctly configure and secure the device. Subsequently, end-users are reliant on well documented procedures provided by vendors in their user manuals and quick start guides. This study investigates the usability and security recommendations and encouragements put forth by vendors in their user manuals. The study demonstrates that user manual usability does not conform to ideal technical publication practices. In addition, end-users are typically not encouraged to utilise the in-built security features and in a few instances are actually deterred from securing their ADSL router.