10 ways to make your Wi-fi more secure

By now, most of us know that public hotspots aren’t always safe to use. Yet, internet security can be an issue even when using your home Wi-fi. Here are a number of ways to improve network security at home.

Check which security protocol you are using.

There are a number of different security protocols – WEP is the oldest and weakest. WPA is better than WEP. WPA2 is the current standard for a secure, encrypted Wi-fi network. If your home network is not WPA2, go to the settings page of your router and change it.

Use a secure password. 

One of the most frequent mistakes in home network management is the continued use of the pre-set password (often “admin” or “1234”). Change the secret password to one that is sufficiently complex.

Deactivate remote router control.

The remote router control is usually pre-set to deactivated but you better check that this is indeed the case for your system. If it is not, deactivate the remote control since this could allow others to access your Wi-fi system.

Protect your ID.

Wireless routers usually transmit the user’s Wi-fi ID without restriction. Deactivate this option by un-ticking the relevant box in the settings. Your system will no longer be easy to identify. If you do this, however, you have to enter your network key each time you connect to the Wi-fi.

Do not use the guest network.

Unless you use it, disable your guest network. This allows visitors to connect to your wireless network.

Do not interconnect devices. 

Most modern wireless routers support several protocols to allow devices to interconnect automatically. Deactivate the ones you don’t use to reduce the risk of intrusion.

Keep your firmware up to date. 

Firmware is the program that runs your device, connecting hardware with software. Regularly update your router’s firmware from the manufacturer’s official website to reduce the vulnerability of your system.

Think about where to put your router. 

Signals from wireless systems radiate in all directions. If your router is next to the wall that you share with your neighbour’s home, he will probably get your signal too. Move the router away from the road and from all the points where your home intersects with other houses.

Deactivate your Wi-fi signal when not in use.

If you’re not using your wireless system and/or are connecting to the internet via cable, deactivate the Wi-fi router. A cable connection is far more secure. If you’re going to be away for a long time, switch off your router.

Keep your antivirus software up to date.

Last but not least, install an antivirus software with malware and always keep it up to date.

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