2. HTTPS.
You can't always use your own home network. Sometimes you have to use a public network (such as at school or work), and there's no way to guarantee privacy on these networks. For example, at a university even if the network is secure, it's very easy for a student who legitimately has the password to use the same methods I used in my first article to get your information.
So how do you make sure no one can see your online banking transactions or important emails you're sending?
The answer is HTTPS encryption. What this does is make it so even if someone is sniffing your web browsing, they have no idea what you're doing. Most banking sites and some email providers (such as Gmail) already offer this by default.
You can see if the site you're browsing offers this protection in your current browser. Google Chrome for example puts HTTPS in green lettering. Check the help files of your current browser to see how it shows it.
Many sites offer an HTTPS version but don't use it by default (such as Facebook). The easiest way to make sure you are always browsing the safest way possible is to use a browser add-on such as HTTPS Everywhere. This add-on automatically uses the HTTPS version of the site you're browsing. You can turn it on and know you'll always be as safe as possible.
Warning: Even with HTTPS Everywhere some sites DO NOT OFFER an HTTPS version. Sites such as Windows Live Hotmail will not encrypt your data in any way. Meaning people can read your e-mails as you send them.