If you’re hosting a party — March Madness, anyone? — and expecting guests, your priority is probably ensuring enough food and drink to go around. But have you considered how many unfamiliar devices will be joining your Wi-Fi network? If those devices are infected with malware, or any of your guests unintentionally download a virus while connected to your main network, it could compromise your security.
Once someone with ill intent gains access to your network, they could potentially access and control any of your connected devices, install malicious software and spy on sensitive data like credit card numbers and live camera feeds.
A secure home network will help reduce the risk of getting hacked and having someone access your sensitive information. It’ll also keep away unwanted or unauthorized users and devices that would slow down your connection or freeload on the internet service you pay for.
Below, you’ll find 10 simple and quick steps to secure your home network. Some are more effective than others at keeping hackers and freeloaders at bay, but all are useful in their own way.
It’s worth noting that nothing can guarantee absolute security from hacking attempts. But these tips make it much harder for anyone to compromise your network and data. (For more Wi-Fi tips, check out how to tell if your internet provider is throttling your Wi-Fi and our tips on how to speed up your Wi-Fi connection.)
Tips to secure your Wi-Fi network at home
Here are the basics for protecting your home Wi-Fi network. Keep reading for more information on each below.
- Place your router in a central location.
- Create a strong Wi-Fi password and change it often.
- Change the default router login credentials.
- Turn on firewall and Wi-Fi encryption.
- Create a guest network.
- Use a VPN.
- Keep your router and devices up to date.
- Disable remote router access.
- Verify connected devices.
- Upgrade to a WPA3 router.
1. Place your router in a central location
Strong network security starts with an optimized setup. If possible, place your router near the center of your home. Routers send wireless signals in all directions, so strategically placing your router in a central location will help keep your connection to the confines of your home. As a bonus, it will likely also make for the best connection quality.
For example, if you have internet in an apartment where neighbors are immediately to the left and right of you, placing your router next to a shared wall could send a strong and tempting signal their way. A good router can cast signals next door or across the street, even if you aren’t in an apartment. Placing your router in a central location reduces how far those signals travel outside your home.
2. Create a strong Wi-Fi password and change it often
This should go without saying, but I will still cover it to emphasize its importance: Creating a unique password for your Wi-Fi network is essential to maintaining a secure connection. Avoid easily guessed passwords or phrases, such as someone’s name, birthday, phone number or other common information. While simple Wi-Fi passwords are easier to remember, they’re also easier for others to guess. You can easily access your router settings to update your Wi-Fi password.
Oh and be sure to change your password every six months or so, or whenever you suspect your network security may have been compromised. The more frequently you change your password, the less compromised it will be.
