Read on to get some practical tips to improve Wi-Fi Security.
Cybersecurity is more than just a business concern. As people run more devices and hold an increased amount of sensitive data on their home networks, even the average consumer can be a tempting target for cybercriminals. Home Wi-Fi is usually an easy target, too, thanks to poor information security practices.
The average U.S. household has more than ten connected devices on its network. Hackers that break in can access all these gadgets and the data they process.
Thankfully, a few straightforward steps can significantly reduce the chances of that happening. Here are 10 tips to boost Wi-Fi security.
1. Use a More Secure Router
Wi-Fi security begins with the devices that make these networks accessible. It’s important to realize that not every router is created equal, and older, outdated ones may be unable to protect against new attacks.
Newer Wi-Fi standards offer more security, so upgrading every few years is a good idea. Look for routers that support WPA2 encryption at least, and ideally WPA3. Wi-Fi 6-capable routers, which all support WPA3, offer the most security.
2. Enable Encryption
Most, if not all, routers available today offer encryption, but they don’t always ship with it enabled. Users can check their options by going into their router’s settings. If it’s not on already, turn it on.
Some routers have multiple encryption options. WPA is generally more secure than WEP, so opt for WPA2 or WPA3, if available, for the most protection. If a router only offers WEP, it may be time to upgrade it.
3. Change the Network Name
Next, users should change their Wi-Fi network’s name, also called the service set identifier (SSID). This may seem insignificant initially, but hackers can look up default SSIDs to discover a router’s make and model, making it easier to find vulnerabilities.
Wi-Fi SSIDs don’t have to be as complicated as passwords, but the more unique and random they are, the better. Avoid revealing personal information in the SSID like family names that could help attackers guess the password.
4. Set a Strong, Unique Password
Users should change the default password after changing the default SSID. Cracked passwords are the most common way cybercriminals break into home networks, and many people use weak ones.
Passwords should be long, random and contain multiple character types. It’s also important to avoid reusing passwords. If attackers compromise an account with a shared password on another site or device, they could use it to access the Wi-Fi network freely.
5. Disable Unused Features
Users changing their router settings should also disable any extra features they don’t need. Some routers come with services like remote access that may be convenient in some situations but aren’t essential. Since each one of these represents another place where vulnerabilities could arise, giving attackers access, it’s best to disable unused ones.
The more complex a network is, the harder it is to secure. Removing unneeded features helps reduce complexity to give users more visibility and control of their system’s security.
6. Update Devices Often
Updates are one of the most important but often overlooked Wi-Fi security steps for any device, including routers. As many as 83% of routers in the U.S. have known vulnerabilities in their firmware, leaving them exposed where a simple update may protect them.
Firmware updates ensure a router has the latest patches and security features. Users should enable automatic updates if available. They should check for and download them regularly if that’s not an option.
7. Disable Name Broadcasting
Most routers display their SSID publicly by default. This makes finding and connecting to a home network easier, but that convenience also extends to cyber criminals. Going into the settings and turning name broadcasting off or clicking “hide network” will keep it private.
When attackers can’t see a network, they can’t look at it as a potential target. Users will have to turn this feature off and on to connect new devices, but the extra steps are worth it for security.
8. Run Smart Home Devices on a Guest Network
It’s also important to address Internet of Things (IoT) vulnerabilities. Smart home devices are infamously easy to hack into, and if a cybercriminal breaks into one, they could use it to access other devices and data on the same network. This is a common problem, with 40.8% of smart homes containing at least one vulnerable device that jeopardizes the whole house.
Running IoT devices on a guest network helps minimize these issues. Users can either get another router to set up a separate system or create one on the same machine.
9. Turn Wi-Fi Off When Away
Just as users should disable features they don’t use, they should also shut the entire network off while away. People don’t need to turn their Wi-Fi off whenever they leave the house, but it’s a good idea for vacations or other trips.
Security is complicated and always changing, so no network is ever 100% secure. As a result, it’s best to remove any potential vulnerabilities entirely by shutting the system down when not in use. That way, users limit the window where cybercriminals could access any devices or data.
10. Use Network Security Software
Users should install network security software to monitor for threats. Studies show that free and paid options are effective, so users don’t need to spend money to increase their protection. This software helps find and resolve vulnerabilities before they cause larger problems.
Users should compare software to see which option offers what they need. It’s also important to update these tools to minimize vulnerabilities.
Wi-Fi Security Is Essential Today
Wi-Fi security has become a central part of everyday life, so securing home networks is crucial. These 10 steps can help ensure users’ systems are as secure as possible. Specific situations vary, but every network can benefit from these measures.
