Routers are small special computers that make sure that a message sent from one computer arrives at the right destination computer. Protecting home routers is critical!. The routers serve as communication links between the internet and the devices in your home that are connected to the internet.
We have explored in-depth how routers work in our previous article linked here. As with many other devices in this digital age, routers are susceptible to security breaches and hackers if not protected properly. It is shocking to realize that a hacker can change all the settings on your home routers and do whatever they please with it just by getting you to view a designated webpage. However, these attacks can only happen when you do not take the proper steps to protect your routers.
This article will therefore provide the various measures that can be taken to protect your home routers.
Reset your username and password
Every router comes with its default username and password. These credentials were set by a third party and can be used to access your router. The most basic and important thing for you to do is to change the username and password. You can either do this online on the website of your Internet Service Provider or with the application that the routers come with.
Ensure that it is a strong password that you have not used for any other site or device. You can read more in detail on how to set a strong password here.
Update (and Upgrade) your router software
Just like your smartphone and laptop, your router also runs on an operating system. It is important to make sure that the router software is always up-to-date to make sure it is secure. If you can set it to automatically update, do so. If not, you will need to update it regularly.
Routers can also become out-of-date. When your router becomes too old, you will need to replace it with another one. Although it may still be working, you may not have access anymore to new security updates.
Encrypt your network
Encryption is a process that scrambles your data so that it cannot easily be guessed by hackers. WPA2 is a new and secure type of wireless network encryption that will protect your home router and network. However, as discussed above, this type of encryption is not available for older router models.
If it’s not in use, turn it off
This seems like the simplest way to protect your routers. Although it’s easier to forget each time you have to turn it off, it pays off better. When your router if off, it is protected from attacks. Thus, turning it off when it’s not in use is highly advised
Keep tabs on connected devices
On average, households have about 50 connected devices. It is your router that serves as the gatekeeper of who is allowed to connect, and who is not allowed to connect. You will therefore need to keep tabs on which devices are connected, and if they are legitimate. You can do this by setting a strong password and only sharing with legitimate and trusted users.
In addition, you can use a hiding feature to make sure that people around will not be able to see your network name, reducing the chances of illegitimate access to your home router.
Use a VPN
Virtual Private Networks, popularly known as VPNs, is a service that enables users to hide their physical location data and IP addresses. It is an on-demand private tunnel through the internet that helps you encrypt your digital footprints on the internet. With VPNs, you are hidden online, and no other user can decipher your identity, location, and digital history.
With VPN, you can use your home router to communicate over an unsecured and unencrypted network in a private way, while protected from hackers.
Positioning matters
It is important to position your router in the middle of your home. The closer it is to a window or door, the higher the chances of your router signals being intercepted by any illegitimate third party.
Enable your firewalls
Many home routers come with in-built firewalls. These firewalls protect broadband connections and deter hackers. However, some firewalls are disabled when they come. It is your responsibility to ensure that your firewall is enabled so that you protect your home router from hackers.
Most people have to pay to get Wi-Fi, routers, and a reliable internet connection. It is logical therefore that you will want to fully enjoy the benefits of what you purchased. Taking the step to secure and protect your home routers may be the one difference that ensures this peace.
Information Science and Media Studies.
In her free time, she likes to teach and empower teenage girls to become the best version of
themselves.
- Protecting your home routers - April 8, 2022
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