Protect Your Wi-Fi Network Security Like a Pro With These 10 Tips

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.

Why Secure Your Home Network?

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 your internet service.

10 Simple, Quick Steps to Secure Your Home Network

  1. 1. Place Your Router in a Central Location

    Strong network security starts with an optimized setup. If possible, place your router near the center of your home or office to ensure equal coverage and reduce dead spots.

  2. 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.

  3. 3. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    A virtual private network 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.

  4. 4. Use a Guest Network for IoT Devices

    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.

  5. 5. Disable Remote Access to Your Router

    Unless you need to access your router while away from home, there should be no reason to enable remote access. You can disable it under the router's admin settings.

  6. 6. Verify Your Connected 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.

  7. 7. 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.

  8. 8. Use a VPN Service

    A VPN service can add an extra layer of security and privacy to your home network. Some VPNs are better than others, but like anything, you often get what you pay for.

  9. 9. Regularly Change Your Wi-Fi Password

    Changing your Wi-Fi password regularly can help prevent unauthorized access to your network.

  10. 10. Stay Informed About Cybersecurity Threats

    Network security is not guaranteed, and even with the most recent and effective methods of protecting your home network, security will never be 100% certain.

With these 10 tips, you can better keep your network secure from anyone trying to use your connection or access your data. For more tips, check out how to find free Wi-Fi anywhere in the world and the ideal location for your router.