10 Tips for Securing Your Wi-Fi Network
Nowadays, everyone likes to be careful about their privacy and security on the internet, but it's easy to overlook important details such as your Wi-Fi network. Many people can't imagine the damage a wireless internet network can do if It is unprotected as it can easily be hacked into and used to get your personal data, information and files. That's why it's important to pay attention to your Wi-Fi connection right away, as we showed in our detailed tips below. Check out!
1. Rename your network
When you buy a new router, it is natural that it already comes with a certain initial configuration and a generic name given by the manufacturer. When you first set up your device, we suggest that you change the network name immediately.
Renaming the network can make it difficult for someone to break into someone else, especially since many routers carry the names of their manufacturers or models, something a hacker would love to know. We recommend that you do not use names that have to do with your personal or family life, as anyone can see the name of your network if it is close enough to your router's signal range.
2. Create a strong and secure password.
This may seem like an obvious tip, but most people choose simple or silly passwords because they are easier to remember or type when they need to add the network to a new device. The problem is that it makes your network very vulnerable to attacks and intrusions.
It is best not to use passwords like “12345”, “abcde” or your name and birthday. Give preference to a mix of letters, numbers and symbols that makes sense to you but cannot be guessed by anyone. It may be hard work in the future, but it is well worth it.
3. Use an encrypted connection
In the past, routers came with a very basic configuration, especially in terms of security. This was because not all devices supported encrypted connections, but fortunately that has changed a long time ago.
It is now possible to use “WPA” and “WPA2” connections (available in the initial configuration of any router) easily and without any problems. We strongly recommend that you use one to make your Wi-Fi network more secure.
4. Disconnect when not at home
This is something most people don't do, but it's a great way to make sure your connection won't be accessed by anyone when you're not home. Just unplug the router and turn it on when you get home. It's a very simple yet effective action that can protect your Wi-Fi from anyone who is malicious.
5. Put the router in a strategic place
This is a suggestion that can help your Wi-Fi signal get stronger and protect it, of course. We recommend that you place the router in the middle of the house instead of the edges, so that the signal is well distributed in your home and does not leave much of it.
This way, people outside your home will not have good access to your Wi-Fi signal, which also makes any kind of intrusion difficult.
6. Create a secure network administrator password
To access your router settings, you always have to go through an admin page, even on first login. The login information is usually written in the handset manual, but is almost always something like “administrator” and “password” for ease of first use.
We advise you to change this as soon as possible, otherwise anyone will be able to access this page and hence your router settings. Use a username and password that is very secure and hard to guess, which will ensure no one else can gain access.
7. Do not enable remote access
Many routers have a remote access feature so the user can see their settings even when not at home. This can be useful for businesses, especially when an IT technician needs to do some repairs remotely, but is not recommended for home use.
Usually the feature is not enabled at the factory, so just don't enable it when you do your initial setup. This way, there is no way for anyone else to find a way to fiddle with your router remotely.
8. Keep your router up to date
This depends largely on the type of router you purchased, as each manufacturer has a different method for sending updates to their devices. It's also important to choose slightly newer models, as older ones are always less likely to be supported for a long time.
Research well about the model you own and check whenever possible for updates available. Therefore, any security issues or breaches should be fixed quickly.
9. Have a good firewall
Many routers have their own firewall to prevent others from trying to break into your computer, but older models need extra protection. Fortunately, it is quite simple to find a good firewall for your router by simply searching your specific model on the internet.
As much as it is an extra step in configuring your router, you will have less reason to worry about it in the future. Be sure to check for firewall updates from time to time as well.
10. Protect the devices you use to connect
Finally, we recommend that you always keep your devices well protected. After all, a computer or smartphone with viruses or malware can open a dangerous breach for a possible intrusion. This is especially true for the devices you always use to connect to your network.
Have a good antivirus on your devices and carefully check the websites you visit or applications you download and install on them. It's good to waste a few minutes on these cautions than allowing someone access to your files and information.
Like the tips to protect your Wi-Fi?
Can you take advantage of our tips for keeping your Wi-Fi network more secure and secure? Be sure to leave your comment telling us what you think of these suggestions and if you have any questions.
