At home, your wi-fi network might have high speeds and excellent internet connection, but is it safe? You might not realize that once you’ve connected all your devices to your wi-fi, such as a laptop and smartphone, you still need to make sure that the wi-fi is protected against unwelcome visitors. Here are a few tips to help you establish a safe and secure wi-fi at home.

1. Configure & Update your Router

To configure and update your router, you’ll have to navigate to the settings page of the router. There are instructions in the manual that came with it, or you can acquire this from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Once you’re in, change the default username and password, just make sure that it isn’t the same password as your wi-fi. At the same time, see if you can update the firmware of your router. This will make sure that the router has the latest security updates.

2. Change Passwords Regularly

It’s incredibly easy to give your wi-fi password out to many people, such as friends, family, neighbors, the list goes on. Even if they aren’t stealing bandwidth from you, it is a good idea to limit the number of people who can freely access your home wi-fi.

By changing the wi-fi password, you’ll automatically reset the number of people who can connect to your network back to zero. You can do so in your router settings.

3. Hide your Network from View

Every time you’ve connected to the internet outside of your home, you will have most likely seen multiple wi-fi connections to select from. At the same time, people can see your wi-fi network when they pass by.

Fortunately, you can remove your wi-fi from public viewing by making it hidden. In the router settings, you’ll find an option that lets you hide the network. Just be aware that if you choose this option, you will need to know the SSID (Service Set Identifier) and password to connect.

4. VPN

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a steadfast software piece that delivers a secure connection between you and what you’re currently looking at on the internet. The VPN makes it much harder for anyone to spy on your internet activity.

There are many VPN comparisons available on the internet. Just be aware that you’ll have to pay to have this extra layer of protection.

Source:

https://www.gizmodo.com.au/2017/02/5-easy-ways-to-secure-your-homes-wi-fi/