In today's digital age, having a secure home network is essential. With more and more personal and sensitive information being transmitted over the internet, it's important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from potential threats, especially if you have kids. Here are some best practices to boost your home network security:
When you purchase a router or modem, it often comes with a default username and password. Unfortunately, these default passwords are often easy to guess or find online, making it easy for attackers to gain access to your network. To prevent this, change your default passwords to strong, unique passwords that are difficult to guess.
Strong passwords are a critical part of securing your network. Use a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using common words or phrases that can be easily guessed.
If you have trouble remembering your passwords, consider using a password manager. Ready to make the switch? Check out this guide on how to create a strong password.
Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is the most secure encryption standard for Wi-Fi networks. Enabling it on your router and devices that support it will protect your network from brute-force attacks and other forms of hacking. WPA2 also makes it more difficult for attackers to guess your Wi-Fi password by using a technology called Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE).
Manufacturers release firmware updates that fix vulnerabilities and add security features. Regularly check for updates and install them as soon as they become available. By keeping your firmware up to date, you can ensure that your network is protected against the latest threats.
Do you want to check to see if your firmware is up to date? Windows and Macbooks have different instructions.
Our network operations team has your back. We keep your devices up to date with the latest firmware updates available. This not only ensure security but also improves the functionality and features of your device. It can also provide fixes to any performance issues that may occur.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, making it harder for hackers to intercept or track your online activities. Using a VPN can also protect your privacy by preventing your ISP from monitoring your online activities.
A firewall can also block malicious traffic and prevent attackers from accessing your network. Most routers have built-in firewalls that can protect your network from unauthorized access. Make sure it's enabled and configure it to block incoming traffic that doesn't meet certain criteria.
Restrict access to your network to only authorized devices and users. Use MAC address filtering and disable guest accounts to limit the number of devices that can connect to your network. You can also set up a separate guest network for visitors, which can help keep your main network more secure.
Remote management allows you to configure your router from a remote location. However, it also opens up another potential avenue for attack. Unless you absolutely need it, disable remote management to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
By following these best practices, you can significantly boost your home network security and protect your personal and sensitive information. With a secure home network, you can enjoy the benefits of the internet without worrying about the risks.
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