Securing Your Home WiFi Network: Best Practices
Having a secure home WiFi network is incredibly important for protecting your privacy and securing your devices from attacks. Here are some best practices for securing your home WiFi network:
Use a Strong Password
The first step to securing your home WiFi is using a strong password. Your WiFi password should be at least 12 characters long and contain a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using common words, names, or dates. Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on your wireless router for the strongest security. A weak password leaves your network vulnerable to brute force attacks.
I recommend using a password manager to generate and store a unique, complex password for your wireless network. This allows you to have a strong password without having to remember or type it each time. Be sure to change the default admin password on your router as well.
Update Your Router Firmware
Out of date router firmware can contain security vulnerabilities that hackers exploit to breach your network. I recommend checking for and installing the latest firmware updates for your router to ensure you have the newest security patches. Many routers can automatically check and install updates. Enabling this feature is an easy way to stay up-to-date.
You should also check the manufacturer’s website periodically for new firmware releases. Major security flaws are typically addressed in firmware updates, so prompt installation is key.
Enable Your Router’s Firewall
Your wireless router likely comes with a built-in firewall that provides an extra layer of protection for your home network. The firewall acts as a barrier between your trusted local network and the untrusted Internet. Make sure your router’s firewall is enabled to help block malicious attacks from the web.
The firewall filters incoming and outgoing traffic using a set of security rules. I recommend enabling the highest level of firewall security that won’t interfere with your network activities.
Change the Default SSID
The default SSID or network name set by the router manufacturer makes it easy for outsiders to identify your wireless network. Changing the default SSID to a custom name helps hide your network from potential intruders.
Avoid using personal information like your address or phone number in the SSID. Opt for a random string of characters that gives no indication of who the network belongs to. You can typically find the setting to edit your network’s SSID in the admin console of your router.
Disable WPS
The Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) feature found on many routers allows devices to easily connect to your network by exchanging a PIN. However, this also creates a security risk by giving attackers an attack vector. I recommend disabling WPS altogether if your router has the option.
WPS is intended for home users who want to simplify WiFi connections. But the convenience comes at the cost of reduced security. Unless you must have WPS active for a specific reason, it’s best to turn this feature off.
Use WPA3 Encryption (If Available)
The WPA3 WiFi security protocol is the newest and most robust available today, replacing the older WPA2 standard. If your wireless router supports WPA3, you should enable it for the strongest encryption possible.
WPA3 employs more rigorous methods for exchanging network keys and user authentication. This prevents brute force attacks and makes it much harder for outsiders to infiltrate your network. WPA3 is not yet universally supported, but using it where possible enhances home network security.
Set Up a Guest Network
Configuring a separate guest WiFi network with its own SSID and password is a smart way to secure your primary network. Your main network should use WPA3 encryption and have devices like computers and phones connected.
The guest network can use weaker WPA2 encryption and be limited to providing Internet access only. Don’t allow file and resource sharing on the guest network. This isolates “untrusted” visitor devices from your private network and data. Limit access to the guest network via a schedule when needed.
Use a VPN
For an added layer of privacy and security beyond your home’s WiFi network, I recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts all network traffic and routes it through a private server, making it very difficult for ISPs, hackers, and snoops to see your online activity and location.
Configure your devices to connect to a trusted VPN service whenever accessing the Internet from home. VPNs protect against certain WiFi attacks like packet sniffing and spoofing. There are many affordable and easy-to-use VPN providers to choose from for securing your home WiFi network.
Avoid Public WiFi Hotspots
Public WiFi networks found at coffee shops, airports, hotels, and other businesses should be avoided when possible. Use cell data or a VPN instead of relying on open or weakly encrypted public hotspots, which are highly susceptible to attacks like man-in-the-middle and evil twin exploits.
Never access sensitive accounts or services over public WiFi without using a VPN. If you need to check emails or log into a website, make sure the site uses HTTPS encryption. Consider using a mobile hotspot from your phone or purchasing a personal MiFi device rather than relying on vulnerable public networks.
