Secure Your Wifi: Simple Steps

TL;DR

Keep your wifi secure by using a strong password, hiding your network name (SSID), enabling WPA3 encryption, keeping your router firmware updated, and being careful about public wifi networks.

How to Avoid Wifi Attacks

1. Change the Default Router Password: This is the most important step. Hackers know default passwords.
   • Find your router’s IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You can find this in your computer’s network settings.
   • Type the IP address into a web browser.
   • Log in using the default username and password (check the router’s manual – often ‘admin’ for both).
   • Go to the administration or system tools section and change the password. Use a strong, unique password!
2. Hide Your Network Name (SSID): Broadcasting your SSID makes it easier for attackers to find you.
   • In your router settings, look for ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wifi’ settings.
   • Disable the option to broadcast the SSID.
   • You’ll need to manually enter the network name on devices when connecting.
3. Enable WPA3 Encryption: WPA3 is the most secure wifi encryption protocol.
   • In your router settings, look for ‘Wireless Security’ or similar.
   • Choose WPA3-Personal (if available). If not, use WPA2-AES. Avoid WEP and WPA as they are outdated and easily cracked.
4. Keep Your Router Firmware Updated: Updates often include security patches.
   • Check your router manufacturer’s website for firmware updates.
   • Many routers have an automatic update feature in the settings – enable this if possible.
   • Some routers will notify you of available updates within their interface.
5. Enable Firewall: Most routers have a built-in firewall.
   • Ensure your router’s firewall is enabled in the security settings. This helps block unwanted access to your network.
6. Use MAC Address Filtering (Advanced): Limit which devices can connect based on their unique MAC address.
   • Find the MAC addresses of your trusted devices.
   • In your router settings, add these MAC addresses to an ‘allowed list’.
   • This prevents unauthorized devices from joining your network.
7. Be Careful on Public Wifi: Public wifi is often unsecured.
   • Avoid sensitive transactions (banking, shopping) on public wifi.
   • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.
   • Look for networks that use HTTPS (the website address starts with ‘https://’).