How Safe Is Your Internet Set Up?

Today’s homes are packed with technology, and with the advent of smart homes and Internet of Things devices, the number of connections we have with the Internet is only increasing. While the Internet can offer convenience, entertainment, and functionality, we have to tread carefully to prevent malware infection.

Use Secure Passwords For Everything

Everything that can be password protected should be password protected, and every device needs its own unique, secure password. That password should be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

You can use a password generator to generate secure passwords instantly. These ensure randomness and enhance security compared to using your own. These random passwords can be more challenging to remember, so it’s worth pairing these tools with a password manager to store all your passwords securely.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication is available with most online accounts, especially those for banks and financial accounts. Install an authenticator app or have short-term codes delivered by text message or email, and use these as part of your account log-in.

2-factor authentication isn’t as secure as other methods of secure authentication, but when combined with biometric authentication and password verification, it adds another layer of protection.

Secure Your Router

Your router is the front door to your network. If you’re using a router supplied by your ISP, it may not be the most secure option. Most combine the features of modems and routers, but security experts advise having separate devices.

Whether you have an ISP-supplied router or not, specific protocols must be followed to enhance the device’s security. This includes changing generic and supplied information to more secure alternatives.

Enable Network Encryption

Most routers come with network encryption capabilities. However, when the device is supplied, this feature is typically disabled. This ensures all data is encrypted before being sent, which means it is broadcast as illegible strings and must be decrypted before it can be understood.

Enable network encryption as soon as you receive your router, and your ISP will enable your network connection. Head to the router admin or settings page to enable this feature.

Disable WiFi Name Broadcasting

When devices search for nearby WiFi routers, they show a list of networks and their names. This makes it easy to detect nearby networks and lets anybody nearby know there is a WiFi network to access.

You can disable WiFi name broadcasting, which means when people search for nearby networks, yours won’t show up. However, you can still manually enter the WiFi network name to gain access via your own devices.

Change Your WiFi Network Name

Generally, ISPs and router providers supply hardware with default network names. These usually display the name of the ISP or the type of router. It makes it easy to identify your network but provides information to would-be hackers.

If specific router models or ISPs have known vulnerabilities, broadcasting a default name makes it easy for thieves to exploit them. You should change the network name and the default password as soon as possible.

Install Antivirus

Antivirus software can protect against many different online threats, although no software is completely infallible. Paid software is generally better equipped to deal with the constantly changing threat landscape, and users need to allow the software to download and install updates.

If you’ve been putting off buying antivirus, or you’ve disabled the auto-update feature, now’s the time to act. You must let your phone, desktop, and other devices automatically update, too, because these updates include fixes for known exploits. They plug security holes.

Use A VPN

A virtual private network can shore up home network defences. It encrypts data while also hiding it. This prevents external parties from being able to see what you’re doing while online, and it comes with the added benefit of opening up geo-restricted content.

VPNs can be device-based or server-based. The modern home, with smart speakers, smart TVs, and multiple mobile and desktop devices, may be better served by a router-based VPN that offers protection for the entire network.

Create Regular Backups

Data loss can be costly. If you work from home, losing data can mean losing work hours. Even if you don’t work from home, it can mean the loss of personal files, including photos, videos, and game saves that you’ve invested hundreds of hours into.

Create regular external backups and consider signing up for a cloud backup service. If you have a VPN or even some email or photo storage services, you might have access to a free or heavily discounted backup service.

Don’t Trust Every Email

Phishing scams and social engineering are the most common ways hackers and thieves gain access to networks. Antivirus and VPN software can offer some protection, but if you open emails and click every link you receive, no amount of security software will help.

Don’t trust emails from people you don’t know. Even if emails appear to come from trusted sources, do your research to ensure they’re legitimate and that the information they contain is genuine.

Conclusion

Protecting your home network should be an important part of your home digital life. Whether you’re shopping online, doing your home banking, or playing your favourite online games, your personal data can be at risk if you don’t follow best practices and maintain a secure network.