If you’re using Wi-Fi at home, then you need to take security seriously. This, for the most part, means paying attention to your router and who can access it. But exactly how can this be done? Let’s take a look at some key measures.
Change Default Login Credentials
When your router first arrives in your house, it will come with a default network name and a password. This combination could, in theory, be known to your internet provider, as well as any person who came to install the device. There’s a simple way of getting around this: create new credentials.
Segment Your Network & Use a VPN
At the same time, you might set up guest passwords for other people who arrive at your house and want to make use of the internet. That way, you’ll get convenience for your guests, without compromising your security. You might also put higher-risk IoT devices on this separate network, so that these devices can never be used to access sensitive parts of the network.
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Protections such as a VPN will also offer a range of security advantages. Get one installed on your router, and you’ll be able to divert all of the traffic in your home through your preferred remote server.
Update Router Firmware Regularly
You can think of a router as a little bit like a highly specialized computer. If a vulnerability is discovered in the firmware that allows that computer to run, then you’ll be at risk of attack from anyone who can access the network. Make sure that you keep your firmware updated, so that such vulnerabilities are rapidly addressed. In most cases, the best approach is to set up automatic updates.
Strengthen Wireless Security Settings
Modern routers benefit from more sophisticated standards when it comes to encryption. The most recent of these is WPA3, though some older models might ship with WPA2. Make sure that you’re not being put at risk by older hardware. If your router is vulnerable, it might be time to upgrade.
At the same time, you’ll want to disable Wi-Fi Protected Setup (that’s WPS). You might also ensure that you’re taking the right precautions when you come to actually compose your passwords. Ensure that they’re sufficiently complex, and get into the habit of changing them every few months. Then, make sure that every other member of your household develops a similar set of habits.
