However, in the current world, where nearly every item gets connected to the internet, protecting your home network is more important than ever. Staying abreast of new threats and the growing population of connected devices, securing a home network could safeguard user data and create a layer of comfort. Below are some of the recommended steps you can take to ensure that your home network is secure.
1. Internet routers: How to alter the basic settings
Another great and very basic measure that a user should take in order to protect his home network is to change the default settings in a router.
- Change the Default Password: Manufacturers sometimes install routers and other devices with default passwords that apply across all their devices, making it easy for hackers to compromise. The purpose of the following tip is to change the default password to a strong and unique one.
- Rename the SSID: The Service Set Identifier typically abbreviated as SSID is the name you give to your particular wireless network. Change it from the default which reveals personal information and the brand name of the router.
2. Choose Secure, Complicated Passwords
First, it is crucial to make sure all your network and connected devices are protected with strong and distinct passwords. Ideally, a password should be at least 12 characters long consisting of both letters, numerals, and symbols. Do not use your dates of birth or simple everyday words as your passwords.
3. Enable Network Encryption
Security of data through networks requires encryption.
- Use WPA3 Encryption: If possible use WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) due to enhanced security level of WPA3. If your router is not compatible with WPA3, you can use WPA2 instead.
- Disable WEP and WPA: Former versions of security protocols such as WEP and WPA are no longer secure against hacker attacks.
Update Your Firmware
It is important that router manufacturers release firmware updates for their routers on a regular basis as a way of enhancing their security and performance. New updates should also be checked frequently and the new vulnerabilities that are discovered must be patched as soon as possible.
5. Enable Firewall Protection
It should also be noted that most routers have an integrated firewall to ensure the protection of the network from various intrusions.
- Enable the Router Firewall: Ensure that firewall services are turned on and properly set up.
- Use Additional Software Firewalls: It may be useful to install other software firewalls for your devices for added protection.
6. Wireless Networking: Guest Network
This feature enables the guests to connect to the internet through your router without granting them access to other devices on your main network.
- Create a Separate SSID: They should use different SSID and password for the guest network.
- Limit Access: Limit your network’s major utilities like the printers, shared drives etc.
7. Disable Remote Management
Remote management is a feature that lets you manage the settings of your router when you are not in the same network with it. It makes work easy, but can also pose a security threat.
Disable Remote Access: For the safety of your data, it is advised to disable the remote management feature, if not needed.
8. They should use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
A VPN hides your internet connection and this means that no one can oversee what you are doing online.
- Install a VPN on Your Router: This will ensure security for all the gadgets that you have connected to the network.
- Use VPN Apps: Use and install VPN applications on individual gadgets more securely when connecting to unfamiliar Wi-Fi networks.
9. Monitor Connected Devices
How often should you determine which devices are on your network? Well, it could be useful to have it at least once in order to see if something had happened in the second time as compared to the first time.
Use Router Management Tools: A large number of the routers of the present generations have features with which one can be able to discover all the devices that are connected in the route.
Disconnect Unrecognised Devices: If you observe any unrecognised devices connected neglect them and change your network pin.
10. Educate Your Household
It should be your duty to let all people in your house understand that it is important for networks security and all people should stick to the rules.
Secure Devices: Smart devices and gadgets such as mobile devices like the smartphones, the tablet computers and also the IoT devices comprised of smart TVs also has to be monitored in terms of encryption/decryption and have strong passwords as well as the latest software update.
Avoid Suspicious Links: Teach relatives not to open any links or downloaded files that seem dubious or were received from unfamiliar sources.
Conclusion
Using Hthane for your home network is a never-ending process that cannot be left undone since after making the connection; constant modifications are required. Therefore, to avoid cyber threats and ensure your identity is safe, you should avoid the following common mistakes. Remember always that it guards not only the information that you entered into it, but it also offers a safer and more dependable Internet connection for every member of your family.
For more detailed guides and additional security tips, visit Fastway Connect, your trusted source for high-speed internet solutions and expert advice on keeping your online activities safe.