When it comes to home network security, there are a few key things to keep in mind in order to best protect your home and family. Here are five common mistakes people make when it comes to home network security, and how to avoid them.
1. Not Keeping Your Router Firmware Up-To-Date
One of the most important things you can do to keep your home network security is to regularly update your router’s firmware. Firmware updates usually address security vulnerabilities, so it’s important to install them as soon as they become available.
When searching for routers, be sure to find out if the manufacturer regularly releases firmware updates and whether they’re easy to install. Many routers can update their firmware automatically, so you don’t have to worry about it. To find out more about router firmware, you can go to this site.
2. Not Changing the Default Admin Username and Password
When you set up a new router, it’s important to change the default username and password for the admin account. If you don’t, anyone who knows the default credentials can easily gain access to your router’s settings and make changes that could jeopardize the security of your network.
3. Not Using a Strong Encryption Protocol
When setting up your home network, be sure to use a strong encryption protocol, such as WPA2. This will help to prevent anyone from accessing your network without your permission.
4. Not Disabling Remote Management
Unless you need to use it, be sure to disable remote management on your router. This feature allows someone to access and change your router’s settings from a remote location, which could potentially give them access to your home network.
5. Not Keeping Your Antivirus Software Up-To-Date
Another important thing you can do to protect your home network is to keep your antivirus software up-to-date. Antivirus software can help to protect your computers and devices from malware that could potentially be used to gain access to your home network.
How to Perform a Quick Security Checkup of Your Home Network
Now that you know some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to home network security, here are a few quick tips to help you perform a security checkup of your own network.
1. Check Your Router’s Firmware Version
First, check to see what version of firmware your router is running. To do this, log into your router’s web-based interface and look for the firmware version number.
If there’s a newer version of firmware available, be sure to update it. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your router’s documentation or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
2. Ensure That You Have a Strong Encryption Protocol Enabled
Next, check to see what encryption protocol your router is using. The best option is to use WPA2, as it’s the most secure.
If your router is using an older or less secure encryption protocol, such as WEP, be sure to change it to WPA2. Again, if you’re not sure how to do this, consult your router’s documentation or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
3. Disable Remote Management Unless You Need It
As mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to disable remote management unless you need it. To do this, log into your router’s web-based interface and look for the setting that controls remote management.
If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your router’s documentation or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
4. Keep Your Antivirus Software Up-To-Date
Finally, be sure to keep your antivirus software up-to-date. Antivirus software can help to protect your computers and devices from malware that could potentially be used to gain access to your home network.
If you don’t have antivirus software installed on your computers and devices, be sure to install it. And if you already have it installed, be sure to keep it up-to-date by installing the latest security updates.
Conclusion
By following the tips in this article, you can help to keep your home network secure and avoid some of the most common security mistakes people make. Remember, a little bit of prevention can go a long way in protecting your home network.
