CISO Insights – September 2024

Who is responsible for securing your home Wi-Fi network? Is it you or your internet provider? You might be surprised by the answer.

Although most modern internet providers include Wi-Fi routers in their service packages, and some even provide security features, you’re ultimately responsible for ensuring your home network is secure. The following 10 tips can help you better secure your home Wi-Fi and not only protect your computers, data and family, but also help reduce cybercrimes.

Change the default name and password of your home network. Internet providers often set default Wi-Fi names and passwords after installation. For better security, change these to something unique. Avoid using personal information, easy-to-guess passwords or obvious references, like birthdates, names or addresses.
Limit access to your wireless network. Don’t give anyone access to your network except for those you explicitly trust. Contractors, guests and friends shouldn’t have access to your network.
Create a home guest network. For secure access, use a guest network. It restricts access to your devices, while allowing Internet use. Most Wi-Fi routers offer this feature, but it’s usually disabled by default.
Turn on Wi-Fi network encryption. Although most modern routers enable encryption by default, it’s important to verify it’s on. Encryption ensures no one nearby can “eavesdrop” on your Wi-Fi communications.
Turn on your router firewall. A firewall helps limit unwanted inbound and outbound traffic, better protecting your network. In most instances, your router won’t have the firewall on. You should check the router’s advanced settings and enable the firewall.
Turn off your Wi-Fi network when you leave home. If you’re leaving for an extended period, such as a vacation or business trip, you should consider turning off your Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that any automation or home security you have could be affected.
Update your router firmware. Regularly check and update your router’s firmware to protect against new vulnerabilities. Updates can usually be done through the router or by downloading from the manufacturer’s website.
Switch to a WPA3 router. Always enable WPA3 for enhanced security in your router’s Wi-Fi settings. Upgrade older routers that don’t support WPA3 by contacting your Internet provider.
Disable remote access. Some routers offer the ability to remotely administer your Wi-Fi router. Opening this feature up to the Internet as a whole isn’t a good choice. You should ensure this is disabled.
Place the router in the middle of your home. Place your Wi-Fi router in the center of your home to optimize its signal and reduce coverage beyond your walls.

Taking these steps can go a long way in helping you protect your data and devices and keep unwanted cybercriminals out of your home network. If you’re unsure about the specifics of these features and how to turn them on, visit your router manufacturer’s website.

CISO Insights – September 2024

Who is responsible for securing your home Wi-Fi network? Is it you or your internet provider? You might be surprised by the answer.

Limit access to your wireless network. Don’t give anyone access to your network except for those you explicitly trust. Contractors, guests and friends shouldn’t have access to your network.

Create a home guest network. For secure access, use a guest network. It restricts access to your devices, while allowing Internet use. Most Wi-Fi routers offer this feature, but it’s usually disabled by default.

Turn on Wi-Fi network encryption. Although most modern routers enable encryption by default, it’s important to verify it’s on. Encryption ensures no one nearby can “eavesdrop” on your Wi-Fi communications.

Turn on your router firewall. A firewall helps limit unwanted inbound and outbound traffic, better protecting your network. In most instances, your router won’t have the firewall on. You should check the router’s advanced settings and enable the firewall.

Turn off your Wi-Fi network when you leave home. If you’re leaving for an extended period, such as a vacation or business trip, you should consider turning off your Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that any automation or home security you have could be affected.

Update your router firmware. Regularly check and update your router’s firmware to protect against new vulnerabilities. Updates can usually be done through the router or by downloading from the manufacturer’s website.

Switch to a WPA3 router. Always enable WPA3 for enhanced security in your router’s Wi-Fi settings. Upgrade older routers that don’t support WPA3 by contacting your Internet provider.

Disable remote access. Some routers offer the ability to remotely administer your Wi-Fi router. Opening this feature up to the Internet as a whole isn’t a good choice. You should ensure this is disabled.

Place the router in the middle of your home. Place your Wi-Fi router in the center of your home to optimize its signal and reduce coverage beyond your walls.

Taking these steps can go a long way in helping you protect your data and devices and keep unwanted cybercriminals out of your home network. If you’re unsure about the specifics of these features and how to turn them on, visit your router manufacturer’s website.