Home Wi-Fi is easy, yet it is usually accompanied by security threats which most people do not pay attention to. Weak passwords, outdated settings, or unsecured devices can be used by hackers to get access to personal data. Internet banking or streaming are some of the usual tasks that can be breached without a secure network. The absence of bad news is that enhancing the privacy of Wi-Fi does not need costly equipment or technical skills. With a couple of considerate measures, you can secure your network and keep your data confidential. The following are eleven free methods that would make your home Wi-Fi safer, as well as other suggestions that would enhance your connection.
Change the Default Router Password
Default passwords are so popular and simple to crack by hackers. So, it’s necessary to set up your router with a strong and unique password right away, so that no one else has access to your router settings.
Use Strong Wi-Fi Encryption
Turn on WPA3 or WPA2 encryption on your router. This codes your information, and it becomes significantly difficult for external parties to access your activity on the internet. Do not use old-day protocols, such as WEP, which would be insecure.
Rename Your Network (SSID)
Don’t use foregrounding default network names where you can easily guess what your router brand or model is. A non-standardised SSID will reduce the ability of hackers to find device-specific security holes.
Limit Device Access
Block access to your Wi-Fi by other devices through MAC address filtering. Only enable reliable gadgets, which do not allow unauthorised devices to enter your network and access your information.
Disable Remote Management
The settings of many routers can be accessed remotely. This feature should not be enabled unless there is a need, and it is being offered to hackers a quick way of interacting with your network anywhere.
Keep Router Firmware Updated
The vendors release updates to their firmware that address these security issues. Inspect your router setup frequently, as well as upgrade this every time that you sense new threats.
Set Up a Guest Network
Develop a different network of visitors or smart devices. This makes your primary network discrete and prevents the exposure of sensitive devices to possible vulnerability on guest devices.
Monitor Connected Devices
While you are about it, occasionally browse the list of devices on your Wi-Fi. When you look at weird devices like that, it usually tells you about a break-in or unauthorised access.
Use a Firewall
Firewalls are usually built on the majority of routers. Make sure that it is turned in such a way that it can trace the incoming and outgoing traffic, which will provide additional protection against attacks.
Reduce Signal Range
Keep your router in a central location and away from windows. And the signal strength can be limited so that your WiFi signal won’t be received by your neighbours.
