Most of the modern tech-savvy home dwellers install a WiFi and keep it like that in a safe corner forgetting all about the notorious malice that can peek into our private accounts through it.
As long as we are availing the network and can work freely connecting the world, we are all satisfied. We must not forget that the router is one of the significant device placed in our home. It is the primary gateway of the internet obtainability, but it is highly vulnerable to the cybercriminals who can access our systems from anywhere.
Cybercrimes are on the rise. Data breaching is common nowadays. Online threats like ransomware attacks are making our lives miserable. The innocent ones are the most jeopardized victims.
Obviously, we should be careful about the WiFi security.
We should remember the Krack Vulnerability that was found in the WPA2 or Wireless Protected Access II protocol that made all devices linked to the network vulnerable. Along with that, there are network sniffing, man-in-the-middle and data theft risks.
Let us see how you can strengthen your WiFi security at home.
- Changing the default home network’s name:
It is also regarded as Service Set Identifier or SSID. The malicious hackers will deal with tough times to identify the router type. If the criminal somehow gets to know the manufacturer’s name, they will get hold of the risks associated with it and will try to exploit.
Do not disclose too much of private info on the wireless network as it will expose your system to the identity theft operators.
- Put a strong and weird password:
Every wireless router has a pre-set default username and password that help in connecting to the router after installation. The hackers knowing the name of the makers hack it easily.
Give twenty characters including symbols, numbers, and alphabets.
- Turn off the WiFi when you are outside:
What’s the need of keeping your WiFi network on when you are not present in your home? Disable it for the time being. Do the same thing with all the gadgets utilizing the Ethernet cables. It will decrease the chances of being attacked by cybercriminals.
It lowers the chances of the device being mutilated by the electric power surges. It reduces the noise.
- Activate the network encryption:
Usually, the wireless networks possess multiple encryption languages like WPA, WPA2, WEP, etc. WPA2 means WiFi Protected Access 2. It is the current industry standard of security protocol. It encrypts the traffic on the WiFi network by replacing the older version that is Wired Equivalent Privacy. It is the latest upgradation of WPA and is running since 2006.
There is a presence of WPA 3 also that is more likely to solve the common security problems. It has got security enhancements and contains features that simplify the security configuration of the WiFi for the service providers as well as the users.
- Place the wireless router in the middle of your house:
It will render equal access to the internet from all the rooms. It will safeguard against the transmission of the signal range to the outside for the cyber thieves. It’s harmful to place the router close to the window or door.
- Change the default IP address as soon as possible:
First, log into the console of the router as the administrator. On the login page, insert the username and password. Then, choose Network, select LAN, change the IP address, and tap on Save.
Now, type the new IP address in the web browser. It is advisable to alter the DNS server for filtering the internet traffic. Your network administrator password must be strong.
- Turn off the router’s DHCP functionality:
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol should be turned off in the router. You have to use a static address and move into the network settings. Assign an IP address to your device that fits the router.
- Turning off the remote access can save you:
Disabling the remote access helps in restricting the evil-intentioned people to access the privacy settings of the router from the device that is not associated with the wireless network. You need to approach the web interface and search for the “Remote access/ administration.”
- Keep the Router’s firmware updated:
It is always a good idea to keep the firmware of your fibre optic system updated. The same goes true with your router.
You may have to do it manually as many routers don’t have the option of getting auto updates.
- Install a firewall:
Firewalls come in both hardware and software variety. The hardware adds more security to the WiFi network. Many wireless routers possess built-in firewall. But, if your router doesn’t contain a firewall, install a good firewall for protecting your system against hacking.
- Check for the security holes and fix them immediately:
- Use the latest software to update the device.
- Make use of the updated security patches for ensuring that there is no loophole that can attract the malicious hackers.
- Be sure that you have installed an antivirus or an anti-malware security software.
- Protect your system by using multiple layers of security like updated antivirus programs, specialized software, traffic filtering software, etc.
Always remember that prevention is better than cure. Stay safe and keep your wireless network safe from any outside threats. Good luck!