Don’t ignore these 10 Wi-Fi security tips

If you’re hosting a party and expect a lot of guests to attend, your priority will likely be to make sure there’s enough food and drink. But have you thought about how many unfamiliar devices will join your Wi-Fi network? If these devices are infected with malware, or any of your guests inadvertently download a virus while connected to your main network, this could compromise your security.

Once a bad-intentioned person gains access to your network, they will likely be able to access and control any of your connected devices, install malware and spy on sensitive data like credit card numbers and live camera feeds.

A secure home network will help reduce the risk of being hacked and giving someone access to your sensitive information. It will also keep unwanted or unauthorized users and devices away Slow down your connection Or free download on the Internet service that you pay for.

Below you will find 10 simple and quick steps to secure your home network. Some are more effective than others at keeping hackers and exploiters away, but all are useful in their own way.

It is worth noting that nothing can guarantee absolute security from hacking attempts. These tips make it difficult for anyone to hack your network and data. (For more Wi-Fi tips, see How to tell if your Internet provider is throttling your Wi-Fi network And we have Tips on how to speed up your Wi-Fi connection).

Tips for securing your Wi-Fi network at home

Here are the basics for protecting your home Wi-Fi network. Keep reading for more information about each below.

• Place your router in a central location.
• Create a strong Wi-Fi password and change it frequently.
• Change the default login credentials for the router.
• Turn on firewall and Wi-Fi encryption.
• Create a guest network.
• Use a VPN.
• Keep your router and devices updated.
• Disable remote access to the router.
• Check connected devices.
• Upgrade to a WPA3 router.

1. Place your router in a central location

Strong network security starts with improved setup. If possible, place your router near the center of your home. Routers send wireless signals in all directions, so strategically placing your router in a central location will help keep you connected to the confines of your home. As a bonus, it’s also likely to be helpful Best call quality.

For example, if you have Internet in the apartment When neighbors are directly to your left and right, placing your router next to a shared wall can send a strong, enticing signal their way. A Good router It can send signals to the house next door or across the street, even if you’re not in an apartment. Placing your router in a central location reduces the distance these signals travel outside your home. CNET recommends the TP-Link Archer AX21, which performed well in terms of speeds, range, and had low latency when we tested it.

2. Create a strong Wi-Fi password and change it frequently

this He should It goes without saying, but I’ll continue to cover it to emphasize its importance: Creating a unique password for your Wi-Fi network is essential to maintaining a secure connection. Avoid passwords or phrases that can be easily guessed, such as someone’s name, date of birth, phone number, or other common information. Although simple Wi-Fi passwords are easy to remember, they’re also easier for others to guess. You can easily Access your router’s settings to update your Wi-Fi password.

And be sure to change your password every six months or so, or when you suspect that your network security has been compromised. The more frequently you change your password, the less vulnerable it becomes.

3. Change the default login credentials for the router

In the same vein as protecting your Wi-Fi network with a password, you’ll also want to prevent anyone from directly accessing your router settings.

To do this, change the administrator name and password of your router. You can log into your router’s settings by typing its IP address into the URL bar, but most routers and service providers have an app that lets you access the same settings and information. If you’re not sure how to determine your IP address, read our guide.

Your router’s login credentials are separate from your Wi-Fi network name and password. If you’re not sure what the default setting is, you should be able to find it at the bottom of the router. Or, if it was changed from the default somewhere along the way, Here’s how to access your router’s settings To update your username and password.

4. Turn on firewall and Wi-Fi encryption

Most routers have a firewall to prevent outside hacking and Wi-Fi encryption to prevent anyone from eavesdropping on the data sent back and forth between your router and connected devices. Both are usually active by default, but you should check to make sure they are enabled in your router settings.

Now that you know how to log into your router’s settings, check to make sure your firewall and Wi-Fi encryption are enabled. If it is off for any reason, turn it on. Your network security will thank you.

5. Create a Wi-Fi network for guests

Before sharing access to your main home network, think about this Create a separate guest network For visitors. I’m not suggesting that your guests try to do anything malicious with your main Wi-Fi connection, but their devices or anything they download while connected to your network could be infected with malware or viruses targeting your network without them knowing it.

A guest network is also ideal for your IoT devices, e.g Wi-Fi cameras, Smart thermostats and Smart speakers – Devices that may not contain a lot of sensitive information and may be more easily hackable than smarter devices such as a computer or phone.

6. Use a VPN

There are several reasons to use a Good VPNNetwork security is one of them. A VPN hides your IP address and Wi-Fi activity, including browsing data.

VPNs are most useful when connecting to a public network, but they can still add a level of security and privacy to your home network. Some VPNs are better than others, but like anything else, you often get what you pay for. Free VPN services are available, but if you pay a few extra dollars a month, you can get a more secure service. Other advantages of using a VPN is that it can be great My neighbor And for Online games.

7. Keep your router and devices updated

Software updates can be annoying, but they often include security updates. When companies become aware of potential or exposed vulnerabilities, they release updates and patches to reduce or eliminate the risks. Stay up to date by downloading these programs regularly.

Keeping your router and connected devices updated with the latest updates will help ensure you have the best protection against known malware and hacking attempts. Set your router to update automatically in admin settings, if possible, and check periodically to make sure your router is up to date.

8. Disable remote access to the router

Remote router access allows anyone who is not directly connected to your Wi-Fi network to access your router settings. Unless you need to access your router while you’re away from home (to check or change the configuration of a child’s connected device, for example), there’s no reason to enable remote access.

You can disable remote access under your router’s admin settings. Unlike other security measures, disabling remote router access may not be the default procedure.

9. Check connected devices

Frequently scan the devices connected to your network and make sure you know which ones. If anything looks suspicious, disconnect it and change the Wi-Fi password. After changing your password, you’ll have to reconnect all of your previously connected devices, but any unauthorized users or devices using your network will get the boot.

Some devices, especially obscure IoT devices, may have strange default names of random numbers and letters that you can’t immediately recognize. If you encounter something like this when auditing your connected devices, disconnect them. Later, when you can’t start Robotic vacuum cleaner From your phone, you’ll know that’s what it was like.

10. Upgrade to a WPA3 router

WPA3 is the latest security protocol for routers. All new routers should be WPA3 equipped, so if you buy a new router, there’s no need to worry. Many people rent their routers directly from the providerwhich may not include the latest equipment.

If your router was manufactured before 2018, you may have a WPA2 device, which lacks the same security protocols as newer WPA3 devices. A quick search for your device model should tell you when it appears and any specific features, such as whether it has WPA2 or WPA3. If you have a WPA2-enabled router, Contact your provider and negotiate To get a better and latest router.

Bottom line? Network security is not guaranteed

Again, even with the latest and most effective ways to protect your home network, security is never 100% certain. As long as there is an Internet, hackers and cybercriminals will find ways to exploit it. Using the tips above, you can better keep your network secure from anyone trying to use your connection or access your data.

For more tips, check out How to find free Wi-Fi anywhere in the world and The perfect location for your router.