Remote working is becoming increasingly common and more prevalent, marked by emerging trends, economic structure and changing business needs. As demand for teleworking continues to grow, it is critical to safeguard your home wireless network from potential cyber threats. A small vulnerability in your home wireless network can lead to unauthorized access and data theft.
You can keep your home wireless network well-protected and secured from cybercriminals. Here are some step-by-step guides that can help safeguard your wireless network against unwanted access.
Step 1: Update your Router’s Firmware
Type your router’s IP address into a browser. Log in to the router’s firmware with the administrator credentials. Go to the Firmware update section and check for the latest firmware update. If available, download and upload it to ensure your router is updated with the latest features and protected against security threats.
Step 2: Change the Default Credentials of your Home Wireless Network
Changing the default credentials is a crucial step to protect your Wi-Fi network. To do that first enter your router’s IP address in a browser and login by entering the default name and password. You will find the default credentials in the router’s level or in its manual. After logging in, go to the router’s settings menu and search for ‘Account Setting’ or ‘Security’ option where you can change your username and password.
Choose a unique username because if you choose your name or company name, it gives hackers a better chance to easily guess and break into your network. Try to choose a name that does not disclose any personal information.
Create a strong password. It must have at least 12 characters with a mix of uppercase, lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.
Step 3: Enable Network Encryption
Almost every wireless network comes with an encryption feature and is generally set as default. To enable network encryption, first log in to the router with the required credentials and navigate to the ‘Wi-Fi’ section under the ‘Security’ or ‘Advanced Settings’ option. Look for options like Security Mode or similar. Change the encryption type WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) or WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2). WPA3 is the most secure option. Finally set the encryption password and save the changes.
Step 4: Turn off or Change Network Name
Changing the network name or SSID (Service Set Identifier) is highly recommended for both protection and personalization reasons. The network name appears when you search for the nearby available Wi-Fi networks. If you change or disable the network name then it won’t show up in the available Wi-Fi networks, keeping your network invisible to others.
To change or disable the network name, log in to the router and search for the ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wi-Fi’ section. From there look for Network Name or SSID. Choose a different name or disable the option.
Step 5: Enable Network Guest Mode
Enable network guest mode to keep your main network private from visitors. This allows visitors to access the internet without gaining access to the main network, hence, keeping secured your sensitive data. This can enable visitors to connect to your network without the need of putting in the main network password. To enable network guest mode, search for the guest mode option in the ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wi-Fi section’.
Follow these simple steps to keep your home wireless network secured and protected against unauthorized access and cyberattacks.