A wifi network provides a network connection that multiple systems can share. It is a wireless network that is aided by a router. It is routers only that facilitate the connection of networks. These networks have become so handy, and a larger lot of people prefer a connection to a WIFI network rather than using cellular data. The grounds of preference for these networks can be attributed to the convenience wifi networks offer.
WIFI networks are cheaper than other network options, and they also are easier to use. The network rendered by routers is more reliable and more secure if proper safety measures are accustomed. Having this network connection also allows you to have the flexibility and can be accessed by multiple devices at once.
Are there any risks involved with WIFI networks?
Wifi networks have a lot of advantages over cellular data and other network methods. But should we worry about the risk of security associated with these networks? To this, we say, yes, you should be careful when you are relying on a wifi network. Malware and viruses are serious threats involved with wifi networks. These networks also can affect the security of your systems and personal information. If you are a business, you may become prey to attacks from cybercriminals.
Let us discuss 10 Effective Ways to Secure Your Wifi Network.
1. Changing the SSID
SSID can be referred to as the technical name for your wifi network. SSID stands for “Service Set IDentifier,” meaning the name of your wifi network name. To find the SSID of your wifi network, click on settings and switch on the wifi network. The connected wifi connection is what your SSID is.
Every router is assigned a default SSID for the respective router. The default SSID generally is the same or somewhat similar to other default SSIDs allotted by the manufacturers. Changing the default SSID of the router you own can be an excellent step to secure your wifi network.
Personalizing and customizing your SSID can protect you from hackers trying to break into your network. The default SSID might speak about your hardware sometimes. Altering the default SSID is beneficial, as it also reduces the chances of hackers targeting your wifi network.
2. Saying no to remote management
Remote management refers to having access to your alter or view router settings online. Remote management of your wifi network can be necessary under some conditions. Needing help with your router settings, troubleshooting a network, and administration of a remote wifi network are some of the main reasons why people choose to opt for remote management of WIFI. While it poses a threat to the security of your network, opt for remote management only if it is really important.
3. Turning off your WIFI network when not in use
It may sound irrelevant, but it is beneficial for securing your WIFI network. It can be linked with the following idea. For the smaller span, your network or router is active, which lessens the chances of hackers cracking your network.
Other than enhancing the security of your wifi network, turning it off will add lesser exposure of EMF to our brains. It also is a safety measure against the sparks that may cause a fire.
4. Is network encryption important?
If you doubt it even for a second, let us tell you how crucial network encryption is. Network encryption prevents misuse of your wifi network. Encryption of your wifi network aims at providing the highest levels of security to your network. If you are not aware of whether your wifi network is encrypted or not, you can check it immediately.
For encryption, your wifi network is easy. Log in to your administrator console by using your IP address. For this, your IP address is to be used as the URL. Look for “wireless settings.” For encrypting your wifi network, either opt for “WPA2-PSK” or “WPA3-SAE”. Choose a strong that can not be and later save the changes.
5. Change the password of your WIFI network regularly
For securing your wifi network, the simplest way is to update your wifi network passwords frequently. There is no doubt how crucial a password for your wifi network is. A hacker can easily crack into your network or systems and can put your information at vulnerability.
You are recommended to change your password in a span of three months. Changing the password for your wifi network enables you to secure your network by shaking off potential hackers sticking to your network. This way, you can limit the breaching to a great extent.
6. Limiting the access to your WIFI network
With your WIFI network, there are multiple ways you can provide access to people in your accordance. With settings done on your WIFI network, you can decide who can use your wifi network. The features don’t end here.
A good router will leave you with some of the important features that can be good for the security of your WIFI network. You can choose the time duration of the network available from your wifi network. Along with it, you can also block or limit websites from your wifi network. Filtering websites accessible from your network can be helpful.
7. The choice of your firewall determines the security of your wifi network
A firewall is a security device installed in our systems that tracks the traffic of connection according to the policies of the organization. It prevents the network from accessing that is not authorized. Choosing the right firewall plays a crucial role in providing you privacy and saving you from misuse of your wifi network. Firewalls also help in keeping a check on traffic on your wifi network.
The traffic analysis helps in monitoring the in-source and outsourcing of data from your network, which further can pose a threat to your protected network. Because firewalls monitor the stream of your data, it also prevents your network from hacking. By keeping a check on the entry points, firewalls also eliminate the risks of virus attacks. By filtering your traffic, firewalls also provide a shield against unauthorized spyware.
8. For accessing your network, use VPNs
VPN, an acronym for “Virtual Private Network,” is another method to secure your wifi network. It is easy to gain access to your network or devices. Your activity on the system can be tracked, and the information is used to send you pop-up ads more frequently.
By using a VPN, you can restrict the chances of someone gaining access to your activity or connections. VPNs also make sure the data you receive or send is kept anonymous. One thing to keep in mind is that whenever we visit a website, a part of the information about us might get stored on the website.
Your shared information may be sensitive; hence it can be misused. By using your information, the cybercriminal may perform activities in your disguise. VPNs provide a solution to this because it is able to hide the information.
9. Giving access to a guest wifi network
A guest wifi network protects you from the risks of network security. By setting up a guest wifi network, you are giving only access to the network. Guest wifi networks are the best and most secure way to share your network without worrying about intrusion into your devices and sensitive information.
If you share your wifi network with a guest, there is a chance you are risking your security. A guest wifi network is also useful if you have multiple devices connected to your wifi network. Systems like smartphones and video games are more vulnerable to the risks of security. Gaining access to these systems means the intruder can very easily break through your other connected devices.
10. Curate strong and distinctive passwords for your wifi network
Creating a strong password is the best thing to do to secure your wifi network. But why does a wifi password matter at all? If you choose a weaker password for your wifi network, your wifi network will be vulnerable to access by other people. It is a matter of concern because it is no hard work to get into the data stored in your systems.
Getting access to your system means your private and personal information is at stake. Someone cracking into your wifi network also means they can use your network. Multiple people using the network will affect the bandwidth of your network.
This only slows down the speed of your network. Lastly, breaking into your wifi network means your network can be misused. Owning the network, you will be held responsible for the illegal activities performed using your network.
Wrapping It Up
Wifi networks, by their assets, are dominating. Even so, wifi networks are prone to some challenges. It is your personal choice to go for a wifi network. Do you wish to set up a wifi network but are doubtful about the security risks involved? Follow our simple yet efficient methods that will protect you from any ill-happenings over the wifi networks.
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