When browsing the Internet safely, there are numerous recommendations to take into account: use a password manager, use a trusted VPN, modify DNS or activate the two-step authentication These are just some of the tips we can follow to strengthen our security on the Internet.
Despite this, we often leave aside one of the key points of network security: the router. If you have never stopped to configure your router settings, your configuration is probably not the most appropriate. In this article I tell you what settings I always change when I configure a new router in order to avoid unauthorized access.
Modify the router access password
One of the first things we should do when setting up a new router is modify the default access password. We are not talking about the WiFi network password, but rather the password we use to access the router configuration page. If you have never changed this password, it is most often very easy to guess, so I recommend changing it, making sure to use a unique and secure password.
Change the name of your WiFi network
If you check the WiFi networks near you, you will see that most of them reveal the telephone company or router manufacturer. This information is something that attackers can use it to access our router, since if we have never changed the network name it is likely that we have not changed the default password either. Therefore, it is advisable to modify the name of the WiFi network (SSID) and use a name that does not provide any type of information about our telephone company or ourselves.
Use a modern security protocol
Another thing to take into account is the router’s security protocol. The most complete is WPA3, although most routers available on the market are not yet compatible. The next most recommended protocol is WPA2, so it is advisable to make sure you are using it. Of course, it is convenient completely discard older protocols, such as WPA or WEP. If your router only supports these protocols, it means it’s time to change your router.
Create a guest network
Most modern routers allow us to create a secondary network for guests. This is a setting that should be enabled so that anyone who wants to use your home’s WiFi network can do so. without having to connect to your usual network. It is important to keep in mind that by accessing our WiFi network they could have access to connected devices, such as a shared hard drive on the network. Additionally, you can take advantage of this network to connect the smart devices you have at home.
Disable remote access
Many routers have an option to access the configuration panel remotely. Although it is a very useful option in case we need to access the router when we are not at home, Chances are you won’t have to use it. Therefore, it is advisable to check that we have not enabled it previously and if so, you can deactivate it if you do not need it. This way you will prevent attackers from using this access door to enter your router.
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