It would not be wrong to say that the router is the most important gadget in your home. You rely on it to connect to the internet. Most people use it for online banking, chatting with friends, watching movies, and shopping online. When not safeguarded properly, these online activities could come to a halt. In addition, hackers could easily crack your Wi-Fi password and steal your data. With that in mind, you should consider taking your Wi-Fi network’s security more seriously than ever. People usually go out of their way to keep unauthorized users off their networks but some hackers manage to exploit vulnerable networks. If the security of your wireless network is your primary concern, then this article is for you! Let us walk you through some effective ways that will allow you and your family to use the internet safely.

Change Your Username and Password

Every Wi-Fi router comes with a default username and password. Once your router is up and running, you should consider changing both. Having a generic username and password makes it easier for hackers to break into your network. Make sure you use a non-generic password and username. This is one of the most effective ways to keep the network attackers at bay.

Rename SSID

The next step is to change the SSID (abbreviated as Service Set Identifier) so that it does not reveal the model or brand of your router. It is not a good idea to use your personal information such as your pet’s name, your name, phone number, birthday, or your address for SSID. As such information can be easily guessed. By changing the SSID, all the devices including computers, smart home devices, game systems, and smartphones, connected to your Wi-Fi network will be disconnected. Once you have renamed the network, you will have to reconnect your devices. If you cannot connect to the internet even if you have reliable TV and internet packages in place, contact a customer service representative via Spectrum Chat. They will resolve your connectivity issues at the earliest.  Or you can find best providers on buytvinternetphone.com

Use a Unique and Strong Password for Your Wi-Fi Network

As mentioned earlier, hackers can easily get the pre-set default password, especially if they are aware of the manufacturer of the router. When choosing a password for your Wi-Fi network, make sure you use a unique one. Try to make sure that the password contains at least 16 characters including a mix of upper and lower case letters, special characters, and numbers. Refrain from using personal information or common phrases. Do not make the mistake of re-using an old password. If you have a hard time remembering your password, consider using a password manager. The app helps you keep track of your passwords. To make your home Wi-Fi network secure, it is recommended to change your password every month.

Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) is one of the most effective ways to keep your wireless network secure. It encrypts your internet connection and hides it from outside interference. This means that the network is responsible for hiding your activity so network attackers or hackers cannot see what you’re doing online. Securing your home wireless connection is important, and it’s a whole lot easier than most people think. If you frequently use a public network, then VPN is a must-have tool. It undoubtedly adds an extra layer of protection to your connection.There is a myriad of VPNs available online; choose the one that perfectly fits your needs.

Download a Firewall

A firewall is specially designed to protect your internet-connected devices from all kinds of viruses and malware.If you are lucky enough to have a router with a built-in firewall, make sure you turn it on. In case, your router didn’t come with a firewall, consider installing one to protect your Wi-Fi network from harmful intrusions.

All in All…

There is no denying the fact that internet-connected devices pose a security threat. However, there is a variety of things that you could do to minimize the risk. Make sure you start practicing good security principles such as being picky about the apps you download, changing your password, and keeping your router and devices up to date. Better yet, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while accessing the internet.