And router it’s one of those devices that has become in common use inside our homes.
Their function, as is well known, is to allow all (authorized) devices to access the web and guarantee them one stable connection, fast e safe.
However, the router Wi-Fi it is also the main gateway for i digital attackers that try to steal from the user personal data and sensitive information and, for this reason, it is always good to take care of them as best as possible and try to organize them efficient security measures and able to resist attacks from the web. Here are some practical tips for doing so.
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1. Disable remote access
All the router Wi-Fi they have an interface accessible from the web which allows users to adjust the various settings starting, in fact, from a common one browser.
To access these settings you need to be connected to the local network of the device, however in many cases it is possible to use the remote access functions, which allow authorized users to manage your connection even when they are not physically within reach of the network in question.
Furthermore, with remote access also the staff who deal with it of customer support can access the device from their workstation and resolve any issues, if possible problems on the network. A simple and fast solution that allows you to provide immediate technical assistance and without the need for a technician to physically go near the router.
However, these settings may make the network more vulnerable to external attacks and is, therefore, advisable disable remote access when not in use.
To do that, that’s enough enter the device settings, go to the tab Remote Access and disable this option.
It is important to remember, however, that by deactivating these features, in the event of problems, customer support will not be able to do anything unless they decide to send a technician on site or the user chooses to reactivate remote access.
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2. Change your credentials and password
Most of the router Wi-Fi has some on the market default login credentials (which usually correspond to the classic “admin”).
This feature is so widespread that anyone could now access other people’s routerstherefore it is always advisable change these credentials as soon as possible.
To do that, that’s enough enter inside the device (always from the browser) and to credentials tab log in, set a new user name and password.
It may also be useful to change the Wi-Fi password using the WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, considered much safer and much more complex to hack.
Here too it is advisable to choose one complex alphanumeric passwordwith uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, letters and special characters.
Of course it is important avoid using trivial passwords such as “password”, your name and surname or your date of birth.
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3. Update your device
Another great strategy for securing your home network is update the firmware of the router every time a new update package is available.
This solution, exactly as happens for all electronic devices, allows you to have the most recent version of the proprietary software on board and to have access to all fixes and security patches provided by the manufacturer, so as not to leave any “holes” open in the system.
Generally, the most modern devices do they update automaticallyhowever with an older model it may be possible to have manually update.
This is a procedure that changes according to the various products and it is advisable to read the instructions before proceeding specific instructions on the manufacturer’s website.
If, however, the device is too obsolete to the point of no longer receiving updates, it may be appropriate to evaluate purchasing a newer modelso as to have more modern security protocols and go back to browsing the web with complete peace of mind.
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4. Change the IP address
Finally, to make sure you have taken care of every detail on the router’s security and truly have a cyber-attack-proof device, it is advisable change its local IP address.
To do this you can always go to the settings and, from the relative formchoose a IP address “less common”; however, it is good to remember that this step does not represent a threat to anyone who is already on the network or inside a device connected to it, because having already accessed the network they could detect the router’s new IP address without any difficulty.
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5. Why router security matters
The discussion on the safety of one’s own router Wi-Fi it is essential for a simple reason: because all the information passes through the home network user-owned devices, including tablets, smartphones, computers and smart home devices.
Faced with this, it is easy to imagine the amount of data and private information that moves through the network created by a router and it is equally easy to imagine the disastrous consequences that a hacker attack could have on all these devices and on your personal data.
Therefore, before it is too late, it is advisable to follow the instructions just described and take action secure your home so you can navigate in complete safety with any device you want.
To know more:
- Computer security: guide to safe browsing on the web
- Hardware: meaning, technology and innovation