Most People Are Leaving Their Wi-Fi Wide Open Without Realizing It

When it comes to protecting your home, most people focus on door locks, alarm systems or cameras. But these days, just as much of your life happens online as it does inside your house. If your home Wi-Fi network isn't properly secured, you could leave yourself open to hackers, data theft and other digital threats without realizing it.

Think about it: if someone can access your home Wi-Fi network, they can controlling connected devices, install malicious software, or spy on your sensitive data, such as credit card numbers and live camera feeds. It's like leaving a door wide open, but instead of physical space, you're exposing yourself to digital dangers.

So what do you do? Make it more secure. A secure home network will help reduce the risk of getting hacked and having someone access your sensitive information. It'll also keep away unwanted or unauthorized people and devices that would slow down your connection or freeload on the internet service you pay for.

Below, we've outlined 10 simple, quick steps to secure your home network. Some are more effective than others, but all will help improve your online safety.

1. Upgrade to a WPA3 router

WPA3 is the latest security protocol for routers. All new routers should be equipped with WPA3, so if you buy a new router, you should have nothing to worry about. But if your current router was made before 2018 and has WPA2, it's time to upgrade.

If your router is outdated, call your provider and negotiate for a better, more recent router. A quick search of your device's model should tell you when it came out and any specific features, such as whether it has WPA2 or WPA3.

2. Keep your router and devices up to date

Software updates can be annoying, but they often include security updates. When companies become aware of potential or exposed security vulnerabilities, they release updates and patches to minimize or eliminate the risk.

Stay updated on downloading those regularly. Keeping your router and connected devices current with the latest updates will help ensure you have the best protection against known malware and hacking attempts.

If possible, set your router to automatically update in the admin settings, and periodically check to make sure it is up to date.

3. Disable remote access

Remote router access allows anyone not directly connected to your Wi-Fi network to access the router settings. Unless you need to access your router while away from home (to check or change the configuration of a child's connected device, for example), there should be no reason to enable remote access.

You can disable remote access under the router's admin settings. This will help prevent unauthorized users from accessing your network.

4. Inspect and disconnect suspicious devices

Frequently inspect the devices connected to your network and verify that you know what they are. If anything on there looks suspicious, disconnect it and change your Wi-Fi password.

Some devices, especially obscure IoT ones, may have odd default names of random numbers and letters you don't immediately recognize. If you encounter something like that when auditing your connected devices, disconnect them.

Later on, when you can't start your robot vacuum cleaner from your phone, you'll know that's what it was.

5. Use a VPN

A virtual private network (VPN) hides your IP address and Wi-Fi activity, including browsing data. VPNs are most useful when connected to a public network, but they can still add a level of security and privacy to your home network.

Some VPNs are better than others, but like anything, you often get what you pay for. Free VPN services are available, but you can get a much more secure service if you pay a few extra bucks a month.

6. Use a guest network

A guest network is ideal for your IoT devices, such as Wi-Fi cameras, smart thermostats and smart speakers -- devices that may not hold a lot of sensitive information and are perhaps more easily hackable than a smarter device.

By isolating these devices on a separate network, you'll reduce the risk of them being accessed by unauthorized users.

7. Change your Wi-Fi password regularly

Changing your Wi-Fi password regularly is an easy way to improve security. Use a strong password and consider changing it every 60-90 days.

If you have trouble remembering passwords, consider using a password manager or creating a list of easily accessible passwords for each network.

8. Limit device access

Make sure only authorized devices are connected to your network. If you notice that some devices have been disconnected from your network without explanation, investigate further and take action if necessary.

By limiting device access, you'll reduce the risk of unauthorized users accessing your network.

9. Monitor your network activity

Regularly monitor your network activity for signs of suspicious behavior. Look out for unfamiliar devices or networks connected to your Wi-Fi network, or unusual patterns of traffic.

If you notice anything suspicious, take action immediately to isolate the device or network and change your password.

10. Stay informed

Network security is not guaranteed. As long as there is the internet, hackers and cybercriminals will find ways to exploit it.

Stay up-to-date with the latest security news and tips by following reputable sources online or signing up for security alerts from your provider.

What's the bottom line? With these 10 steps, you'll significantly improve your online safety. Remember to stay informed and adapt your strategy as new threats emerge.