So while we all are locked down at our homes, during this hour of crisis, the only thing we are thankful for is – the Internet. Living in the technology-driven era has saved all of us from combating this difficult time together. The offices are operating from home, the students are attending regular classes online, and the essential amenities are getting delivered at our doorstep. And all this is happening while we sit in the comfort of our homes. With all our devices and work connected to the Internet, it is safe to say that the Internet is now a basic necessity of this century.

Hence, a home wireless network that is accessible to every device belonging to every member of the family is a must in every household. However, we all are aware that the Internet is not the safest place and can be a playground for wicked things. Frauds and theft of bank account and credit card details, along with many other concerns, can spell trouble for you. So, it is essential to take measures for the security of your home Wi-Fi network. The best routers are equipped with critical features that can provide a safe and secure internet connection. 

Keep reading as we share some tips to secure your Internet.

1. Change the default name of your Wi-Fi.

Most of the manufacturers provide a default SSID (service set identifier) to all their devices. Based on the company’s name, when a tool searches for the nearby networks, it lists every system and broadcasts the SSID. This makes it easier for hackers to break into the net. So, it is advised to change the network’s SSID to a different name that does not give clues to hackers.

2. Strong and Unique Password

Setting up a unique and robust password is essential. The device comes with a default password that is pretty simple to guess. Hackers take note of every detail, and it is easier for them to crack the passcodes if they know the router manufacturer. Make sure you change the password that includes special characters, uppercase, and lowercase alphabets and numbers. The combination gets tricky to crack, and your connection remains safe. Also, to avoid the chances of the password getting cracked, change it periodically.

3. Enable Network Encryption

Not many people pay attention to the fact that the encryption remains turned off on almost all the wireless routers. As soon as the device is installed, make sure to turn your wireless router’s encryption setting. This helps in securing the network. WPA2 is the most recent and active encryption right now.

4. Turn off network name broadcasting

This is highly recommended that you disable the network name broadcasting to the public. The name will appear only on the devices connected with the wireless router, and this will further dismiss the chances of getting caught by the hackers. This feature is usually helpful for businesses, libraries, hotels, and restaurants as they like to offer wireless internet access to their customers when needed. To keep yourself updated, you can follow news websites.

5. Update your router software 

Just like other devices, software update on your wireless router is as essential as any other security measure. Every software update comes with fixtures on the previous model, and this ensures that the no security hole remains open to the cybercriminals. Don’t miss it and install the latest software as soon as it is available on the system.

6. Ensure a good firewall

A firewall protects the device from unauthorized access and harmful intrusions. Generally, a wireless router has a built-in firewall but remains turned off in the default settings. Make sure you go to the settings and turn it on. In case your wireless router lacks a firewall, ensure that you install a good firewall on the system to keep an eye on for nefarious activities on your network.

7. Use vpn to access your network

Virtual Private Network or VPN is a connection method that works together over the Internet and provides security and privacy to private and public networks. The process ensures that once you log in to the system, your credentials, along with the connection, remain encrypted and secure.

8. Locate your Wi-Fi router strategically 

Locate your Wi-Fi router in a place where it’s signal reaches efficiently to your devices in your home but not beyond. Wi-Fi signals that reach outside the house often attract potential intruders to access your network. Adjust the transmit power of your router to let the signals confined within the periphery of your houses. 

9. Use the administrative functions of your router 

By going through the administrative functions of your device, you can manually check the connected devices and determine all the devices that have access to your connection. Some routers also have a whitelist and blacklist function. You can specify the devices and can list them accordingly to have a safe connection.

10. Change the administrative management profile of the wifi router

All routers are equipped with an administrative profile that is used for maintenance purposes. The patterns are usually set by default, according to the manufacturers. Make sure you check and change the essential settings of the router periodically. This disables the intruder’s chances of misusing the connection.

Almost every person uses the Internet now. Some for entertainment, others for work, but whatever the use is, it is always recommended keeping your connection private and safe to prevent your essential information from getting exploited. You can avoid such malicious activities by taking some preventive measures as listed above.