1. Alter the Default Router Configurations
Change Default Username and Password: Many internet users do not bother to change their router passwords. Ensure that you lock your router with a strong password and not one that can easily be guessed.
Change SSID (Wi-Fi Name): Do not name it using specific default names such as “TP-Link123” as hackers will be able to easily know which router they are attacking.
2. Strongly Password Protect Your Wi-Fi
Enable WPA3 or WPA2 Encryption:
WPA3 is the newest one and is currently the best option
If your router is not compatible with the WPA3 encryptor, then use the WPA2-PSK (AES) instead. However do not use WPA or WEP as these protocols do not offer a strong layer of protection.
Set a Strong Wi-Fi Password:
Always have a strong password that includes letters, numbers and symbols and is at least 12 characters long.
Stop access to your Wi-Fi network from unrecognizable devices or don’t provide access to anyone who can guess your strong password.
3. WPS (WI-FI PROTECTED SETUP) SHOULD BE DEACTIVATED
WPS is a functional feature that helps in the quick attachment of devices to the router but is susceptible to risks.
Hence, deactivate WPS through the settings on your router.
4. Activate A Firewall
Most routers nowadays come with a built in firewall feature. And if your router has one, ensure that it is in the ‘on’ position.
5. Regularly Upgrade Your Internet Router’s System
Always try looking for new firmware and install them on the router to eliminate weak points in your routers security system.
6. Set Up A Guest Network
Install a guest Wi-Fi that will be for friends who visit or for all the smart devices in your home.
This separates them from your core network and minimizes exposure.
7. Disable Network Features That Are Not in Use
Remote Management: Better to disable this option in order to cut access to the Router from other networks.
UPnP (Universal Plug and Play): Better disable this option otherwise it can be used to the disadvantage by hackers.
8. Avoid VPNs
VPNs enable you to protect your internet traffic on your devices so that When trying to find information in particular elements information is highly secured. That is the goal.
9. Limit the Number of Devices that Can Connect to Your Router
Configure your routers settings and enable MAC address filtering meaning only the devices that you specify can connect to the router.
You regularly need to connect to check what devices are connected to yours and delete those who seem irrelevant or dishonest.
10. Keep a Check on All the Activities over your Network
Use the network monitoring tools available within the router or get one of those network monitoring apps that will enable you to check all the devices connected to your network.
In case a new device has surfaced or is connected to your network change the password ASAP.
11. Limit the Distance a Wi-Fi Signal Reaches
Connect the router to a location at the center of the house away from any of the external walls which will help reach the goal of preventing the signal from leaking outside.
12. Turn off Wi-Fi when It’s Not in Use
In case if you will not be present in the place for longer durations then it is better to turn off the router because your intentions are to reduce the chances of any unauthorized access.
Bonus: And Final Tips Including For Security Purposes
Do not use a regular DNS Service: Because the regular DNS ends up letting you towards a single domain that doesn’t lead you to any but using the Cloudflare DNS or Google DNS leads you towards so many websites that can be beneficial.
Invest in a Secure Quality Router: Purchase a router that features up to date security and supports WPA3.
Evaluate The Use of VLANs: Employ VLANs for advanced security in the configuration of smart homes.