AI generated image for representation
Why securing your home Wi-Fi is important
An unsecured network can also lead to slower internet speeds due to unauthorised users accessing your bandwidth. ‘The Times of India’ brings you ‘Hack of the Day’—a new weekday series of quick, practical solutions to everyday hassles. Each hack is designed to save you time, money or stress, using tools and features within your reach—from government websites to everyday apps. In simple terms, it’s simple fixes for smarter living. A home Wi-Fi network connects everything from smartphones and laptops to smart TVs, security cameras, and other connected devices. However, an unsecured wireless network can become an easy target for cybercriminals looking to access personal information, steal passwords, or even take control of connected devices. To help users stay protected, cybersecurity experts recommend taking a few simple steps to strengthen Wi-Fi security. Most of these settings can be changed directly through the router’s management page and can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access. Your Wi-Fi network acts as the gateway to the internet for all devices in your home. If hackers gain access to your router, they may be able to monitor internet activity, intercept sensitive data, install malware, or use your connection for malicious activities. By updating a few router settings and following basic security practices, users can make their home network safer and more resistant to cyber threats. Before you change anything, make sure you can get to your router’s settings page. Most routers can be controlled through a web browser or a manufacturer’s mobile app. It is also a good idea to install any available firmware updates before changing security settings, as updates often include important security fixes. This information may be published on websites, data broker platforms, public records pages, or other online sources, making it easier for scammers, spammers, and cybercriminals to access it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to reduce your online footprint and remove personal information from search results.
Earlier reporting noted: Hack of the day: How to remove personal information from Google Search AI-generated image for representation Earlier reporting noted: Personal information such as phone numbers, email addresses, home addresses, banking details, and government-issued ID numbers can sometimes appear in online search results. Earlier reporting noted: While removing all information from the internet can be difficult, Google offers tools that let users identify where their personal information appears and request its removal from Google Search results.
How to secure your home Wi-Fi network
Step 1: Change your router’s default password Many routers come with default administrator usernames and passwords that are publicly available online. Step 2: Create a strong Wi-Fi password Your Wi-Fi password should be different from your router’s administrator password. Use a password that is at least 12 characters long and avoid personal details such as names, birthdays, or addresses. Step 3: Enable WPA3 or WPA2 encryption Encryption protects the information transmitted between your devices and the router. Step 4: Change your network name (SSID) Routers often use default network names that reveal the router brand or model. Step 5: Update your router firmware Router manufacturers regularly release updates to fix bugs and patch security vulnerabilities. Step 6: Disable WPS Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) allows devices to connect quickly using a button or PIN. Step 7: Turn off remote management Some routers allow settings to be accessed remotely over the internet. Step 8: Set up a guest network If visitors frequently use your Wi-Fi, create a separate guest network. Step 9: Enable the router firewall Most modern routers include a built-in firewall that helps block malicious traffic. 10.
Log in to your router settings and change the administrator password to a strong, unique one that includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. This prevents attackers from easily accessing your router’s settings. A strong password makes it harder for unauthorised users to connect to your network. Open your router’s wireless security settings and select WPA3 Personal if available. If your router does not support WPA3, choose WPA2 Personal. Avoid using older security standards such as WEP or WPA, which are considered insecure. Rename your Wi-Fi network to something unique that does not contain personal information or identify the router manufacturer. This makes it more difficult for attackers to target known vulnerabilities. Check your router settings for firmware updates and install the latest version available. If your router supports automatic updates, enable the feature. WPS has known security weaknesses and can make your network easier to attack While convenient. Disable WPS through your router’s wireless settings for better protection. Unless you specifically need this feature, disable remote management to reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your router. A guest network provides internet access without giving guests access to your primary devices, shared files, or smart home equipment. Check your router’s security settings and make sure the firewall is enabled. This adds an extra layer of protection against cyber threats. Keep checking connected devices Regularly check your list of devices connected to your network. If you see a device you don’t recognise, disconnect it, change the password for your Wi-Fi and check your router’s security settings. Regular monitoring can help identify unauthorised access before it becomes a larger problem. Additional tips for better security Avoid connecting to unknown public Wi-Fi networks without protection. Use a VPN when accessing sensitive information online. Keep computers, smartphones, and smart home devices up to date with the latest software patches. If your router supports it, create a separate network for smart home devices. Don’t share your main Wi-Fi password with anyone outside your home. Use WPA3 encryption, if available. Update your router’s firmware.* Disable WPS and other remote access features you don’t use. Set strong passwords for both Wi-Fi access and router administration. Regularly check connected devices and get rid of any that you don’t recognise. Set up a guest network for visitors instead of sharing your main Wi-Fi credentials. Securing a home Wi-Fi network only takes a few minutes but can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks. By following these steps, users can better protect their personal information, connected devices, and internet connection from unauthorized access. Get the latest technology news and updates. Download the TOI App.