Many people have trouble getting access to wireless internet access in their homes, mainly because they’re not sure what to do. Fortunately, there are many ways to get internet access at home, and if you know what you’re doing, getting access can be pretty easy. Here top 10 tips that will help you do just that.
1. Change your default username and password of your router
Many people leave their wireless routers on their default names and passwords, which make them easy targets for attacks. To secure your network, change both of these to make it harder for intruders to access your router. If you have other tech savvy people living in your home or a family member who needs internet access, consider adding multiple SSIDs to your router so you can keep various devices separate while still allowing them access. Also remember that even if someone is connected to your Wi-Fi but not actively using it, they can still intercept data (like credit card information) going over that connection. Because of that, use a secure form of payment when shopping online and avoid sending sensitive documents via email.
2. Limit access to your wireless network
Some people suggest disabling SSID broadcast altogether but I would caution against it. You want to be able to see your network name so you can connect, and there are plenty of other ways a determined intruder can figure out how to get in (like sniffing wireless traffic or physical access). Instead, why not use a long and random password? If someone figures out your password, at least they’ll have a hard time guessing it again later. Also make sure you pick an easily-remembered SSID that doesn’t start with linksys, cisco, or anything like that. When anyone tells me what their wireless network is called, I just have to ask them for the first letter(s) — those are usually enough.
3. Create a home guest network
A guest network is a separate wireless network from your main wireless router. This is a common solution for small businesses, as well as an easy way to make sure you don't run out of Wi-Fi bandwidth when hosting parties or events. Creating a new wireless network is easy and only takes a few minutes. Some modern routers (like Google Wifi) have an additional simple toggle for turning off your main Wi-Fi and just enabling guest access at any time with one tap.
4. Turn on WiFi network encryption
If you want to improve your WiFi security and protect against eavesdroppers, then you need to use encryption. There are three primary kinds of encryption available: WEP (wired equivalent privacy), WPA (Wi-Fi protected access) and WPA2. Each have their own pros and cons and what kind you use depends on how much time you're willing to spend setting up your wireless network. You'll also need a special adapter or router for WPA2 so that can bump up both prices and installation times a bit. If possible, it's also a good idea to combine encryption with other security measures like firewalls. Strongly consider getting a home-security system, too; they aren't expensive anymore!
5. Turn on your router firewall
All routers should have a firewall that can be turned on. A router firewall helps protect your network and computers from attacks by hackers. Turning on your router’s firewall is an important first step to securing your home network. If you don’t know how to do it, consult with whoever set up your Wi-Fi in your house (it might have been a tech support person who installed it or possibly just an amicable friend). If they aren’t around anymore, consult with whoever currently owns or manages your wireless network. Also take a look at our router buying guide here . Below are some other useful tips for securing wireless internet access in your home
6. Turn off your WiFi network when you leave home
When you turn off your WiFi network, you disable all other devices connected to it. This prevents hackers from remotely accessing information on those devices, but it also stops you from using them while they're turned off. Before leaving home, simply flip your router's power switch to off or change its radio setting from on to radio disabled. This way, even if a device connected to your home WiFi network is compromised by malware when it connects to an open access point outside of your house (like in a coffee shop), hackers can't control that device remotely. While it's not a foolproof security method, it does offer some protection against would-be intruders.
7. Update your router's firmware
You can do so by visiting your router's manufacturer's website, downloading their update file and following instructions on updating your firmware. Updates are typically very easy to perform and will help fix any bugs in older versions of firmware, as well as improve connection speeds. If you're not sure how to go about upgrading your router's firmware or aren't sure what specific features you should look for when shopping for a new router, check out our buying guide that covers some important features to look for when purchasing a new router. Also make sure you have your devices connected directly to your router before updating its firmware—you'll want to switch over to using wireless internet once your home network is updated with a new, up-to-date version of firmware.
8. Switch to a WPA3 router
WPA3 is a security protocol that protects users from offline dictionary attacks. This means that it makes it harder for hackers to crack your password because they need an internet connection to get on your network. There are also new features in WPA3 like Perfect Forward Secrecy and even more stringent requirements for passwords and authentication methods. If you’re looking to upgrade from your current router, check out our guide on how to find a good one .
9. Disable remote access
You've worked hard to get your home wireless network set up and you'll want to make sure no one is able to access it except you. To do so, log into your router settings and disable remote management. If you need help, there are plenty of tutorials online that can help walk you through disabling remote access on your router. Once that's done, anyone looking for a wireless connection at your house will be out of luck. Be sure to use secure passwords, too!
10. Place/Setup your router in middle of your house
If you want wireless internet access throughout your entire home, you’ll need to put your router in a central location and make sure every room is within range. If possible, putting it near a corner or other sweet spot will help ensure even coverage. Keeping your router high off of surfaces may also help it project better. For best results, place your router directly above its base station to minimize interference.
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