INCREASING THE SECURITY OF OUR ROUTER!

If you’re motivated enough to take all of the above into account, you can improve the security of your router and your home network as a whole.

A router helps distribute your internet connection to all devices on your network, but at the same time, it also carries additional risks and threats as attackers become more sophisticated in terms of spreading malware, ransomware, and other network attack scenarios.

March last year, it was reported that hackers used vulnerable and accessible routers to redirect users to a malicious application dedicated to the COVID-19 virus in order to steal personal data. A natural question arises as to how to protect oneself from threats of this kind. At first glance, this may not seem like a trivial task, but there are some steps you can take to improve the security of your router and Wi-Fi network.

1. Check your router settings

The first step to take is to check your router’s security-related settings. Many users leave the default configuration unaware that these settings can be changed. Specific settings vary by model, but all routers have features to improve security.

To get access to the settings, you need to go through authorization using the data that comes with the router (usually the IP address and password). First of all, you should change the password to a more complex one so that attackers cannot simply log in to your network.

2. Change the name of the Wi-Fi network

The next step is to change the Wi-Fi network name (SSID). Keeping the default name makes it easier to find your network by scanning.

3. Disable Broadcast Network Name

This setting, used to connect to Wi-Fi (such as coffee shops, libraries, or hotels), should be in your router’s settings. In the case of a home network, these kinds of functions are not necessary. Once disconnected, your network will not be on the public list.

4. Enable network encryption

Many routers have this feature, but it’s disabled by default. WPA2 encryption should be available.

5. Check if the router has a guest network

This isn’t to say that your friends won’t be safe when they connect to your network, but if you give access to a guest network instead of a home network, you’ll increase the overall security of your main network.

You don’t need to share your network password left and right in any case, and if you can share the Internet while keeping your home network safe, you should take advantage of this opportunity.

6. Check Your Firewall Settings

All 2- or 3-channel routers have a built-in firewall, which, however, can be disabled. A software firewall is designed to protect your network from intrusions. If your router doesn’t have a built-in firewall, you’ll need to purchase another router or a separate device with firewall features.

7. Use a VPN

VPN (virtual private network) is used to encrypt communications originating from the network. The scheme of work is related to the mixing of incoming and outgoing communications so that no one can understand the essence of the transmitted information. As soon as the data arrives on your computer, the VPN performs decryption.

8. Keep your software and firmware up to date

From time to time, manufacturers update the software and firmware of devices, as well as publish information about new malware and viruses. When you update your system, you become protected from new threats. When new patches become available, especially in the area of security, try not to put off updating for a long time.

9. Turn off your router

If you plan to be offline for a while, you can turn off your router at the same time. However, this can be inconvenient if you don’t live alone, because once disconnected, no one will be able to use your network.

10. Buy a new router

How old is your router? Older models don’t have many of the security features that newer routers have. Buying a new router will not only increase the security of your network, but it will also possibly increase your internet speed.

If you’re motivated enough to take all of the above into account, you can improve the security of your router and your home network as a whole.