Cybersecurity, a miracle of the digital age, has brought along a wave of mischief as well. Browsing around the internet may seem harmless, but worse things are lurking on this web.
So, managing a proper security system for your home network is extremely important. To save you from the hassle, we have gathered the top 10 tips to secure your home WiFi network.
Why do you need to secure your home network?
Well, imagine you are peacefully enjoying a Brooklyn 99 rerun, checking your social feed, and making online transactions using your credentials. You are putting all this information on the web.
And while Brooklyn 99 would do a hacker no good, your credentials definitely will. Data theft and other cyber-attacks have become increasingly alarming, be it against a home network or a giant enterprise. But with just a little effort, you will have your home network secured against external threats. Here are 10 of our best tips for securing your home WiFi network:
1. Update the default password and name
Default passwords are readily available and can be easily used to hack a network. Here is how you can change yours:
- Open your web browser.
- Enter your router’s IP in the URL tab and press enter.
- Login to your router’s dashboard using the credentials.
- Now search for a WiFi or wireless section.
- Enter a strong password and name for your network.
- Click Apply or Save.
Just make sure your password includes a complex string of characters, symbols, etc.
2. Don’t lend your network
It might seem harsh but you shouldn’t hand over your WiFi password to every other person. Your network credentials are a crucial aspect of your network’s security. They provide a free gateway to your private network. So, the fewer people access it, the better.
3. Encryption is key
Encryption is fundamental to the concept of network security. An encrypted WiFi network encodes your data into an unintelligible form so that it cannot be intercepted and misused.
The best standard for network encryption today is WPA2 and WPA3. You can easily enable an encryption mode by logging into your router’s settings and enabling WPA2 encryption. And make sure to reconnect all your devices to the network after enabling security encryption.
4. Network security with firewall
A network firewall regulates internet traffic by differentiating between trusted and untrustworthy sources. Most routers have a built-in security firewall to protect your network against malicious threats.
But do log into your router’s advanced settings to ensure that your network’s firewall is enabled.
5. Configure MAC address filtering
MAC address filtering, an important security feature, allows you to grant network access to certain specific devices. All you need to do is provide a list of MAC addresses for your devices.
This filtration technique will then prevent any other device from accessing your network. Thus, MAC address filtering adds another layer of security to your home network.
6. Turn off your internet at times
A thief can’t barge in if the doors are locked. Well, the same goes for your home WiFi network. If you are going out, turn it off. If you are going for a trip, turn it off. Every second the gate to your network is open, it could attract malicious activity. It is a simple technique but effective nonetheless.
7. Invest in a reliable VPN service
A VPN has become a network security staple. It provides your home network with all the security it needs against cyber attacks. A reliable VPN, such as PureVPN encrypts data, masks your IP, and protects your location. It further provides a safer tunnel for your data to pass through. What more could one need.
8. Keep up with the firmware updates
Router manufacturers often release fixes or patches for security vulnerabilities. It is important to regularly update your router’s firmware to protect your network against any vulnerabilities that a hacker might exploit. Visit the manufacturer’s website to look for updates. Download and install according to the directions.
9. Disable the remote access feature
Certain features in your network router provide a specific solution. And while they are helpful, it is better not to keep them enabled. One such example is the remote access feature. It allows you to access your network remotely. While this might come in handy, it could also work as a gateway for hackers to access your system.
10. Set up a guest WiFi network
A guest network feature in a router provides a separate access point for others (guests) to use. So, you don’t have to worry about your information and data being hacked into by an external source. A guest WiFi network separates the connection points for your data and devices from a general connection point.
So there you have it! A perfect guide to get you started on network security. Follow these tips to secure your WiFi network against unauthorized snooping and many other cyber threats.
