Update Your Router and Devices
Computers, phones, routers, and other smart devices can get updates from the manufacturer to address these security issues. But a lot of these individuals never install these upgrades, thus making their networks open to such attacks. This may be the most important preventive measure as it involves updating the firmware of the router and updating the operational system of all connected devices. Allow auto-update each time it is possible.
Change Default Passwords
Many routers and most smart home devices come with basic initial settings passwords, such as “admin/admin” or “1234. ” Whenever a new device is connected to your network, go to the settings of the particular device and reset the password to a new one that is strong, which includes upper and lower cases, numbers and symbols.
Enable Firewall On Your Router
As for protection, your wireless router contains a firewall that examines internet traffic and closes off any malicious activity. The ability of the firewall that is being provided adds another line of defense to the home network. Navigate to your router’s settings and search for any “firewall,” “SPI firewall,” or “intrusion prevention” options and enable them if they are disabled. The firewall runs in the background to block the attacker.
Keep Your Wi-Fi Network Name Invisible
Instead of sending your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) out there for everyone to see and join, you can make the SSID hidden so only those who know the name of your network can log in. Access your router’s admin page, look for the SSID broadcast or visibility options, and switch off SSID. Your network name will not broadcast on other devices as they search for available networks to connect to.
Use WPA3 Wi-Fi Security
If you can, enable the newest security protocol called WPA3 for your router. Additional, WPA3 applies enhanced security protocols to encrypt the traffic on your wireless network to enhance the security making it nearly impossible for the hackers to penetrate into the network. If you have access to the router dashboard, navigate to the wireless settings, and in the security mode, if available, select WPA3. If WPA3 cannot be used, then at least be sure that you are using WPA2 security.
Create Multiple Wireless Networks
When visitors come to your home, do not reveal to them your main Wi-Fi password. However, to avoid such instances, try to create a different network for the guests to connect to. This maintains the protection of the private network. Users are able to connect to the internet and interact with your wired/wireless network but not any other device or shared files such as storage drives. Go to the router admin panel and click on the “Guest Network” option to create a new SSID and password that will only offer internet connectivity.
Use a VPN
To enhance your privacy and security when browsing the internet, use a VPN service which establishes a secure canal of communication that shields your activities and identity. VPNs help you avoid hackers on open Wi-Fi observing you. While purchasing something online, a VPN also makes your credit card details and internet histories inaccessible to hackers. Use a high-quality VPN from Norton or mcAfee to ensure that all traffic passing through your connected devices is secure.
Implementing these 7 core principles will significantly minimize your cyber threat exposure at home. For routers, one should be very careful, ensure that security settings are on, and make sure that all router software is up to date. Also, remind housemates to practice good safety network habbits as well. The home system in a home secures it from threats and intruders, protects the privacy of the occupants, and gives a sense of security.
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