How to Secure Your Personal Wi-Fi Network from Hackers

Productivity and Learning
How to Secure Your Personal Wi-Fi Network from Hackers

 
WiFi is a day-to-day companion of our lives, regardless of our occupation or employment. Therefore, having a secure Wi-Fi network is, without exaggеration, crucial for protecting our personal data and privacy. As technology is evolving, hackers are constantly looking for new ones to gain access to financial data, confidentіal information, and even control over devices connected to the network. Thаt is why, these days it is extremely important to know how to secure my Wi-Fi router at home from hacking and make sure that its protection is reliable.

wifi Image Credit: depositphotos

Strong Password as the Basics of Basics

It would be strange not to start with a base that remains relevant forever. This is setting a super strong password. Follow all the requirements to ensure its complexity. That is, it should be a combination that will not match your data in any way. Don't just use different letters in the mix, but wedge various numbers into them, not forgetting to alternate uppercase and lowercase letters.

Once you have set a strong password, be sure to keep it in a safe place. However, our daily lives are so overloaded with information that it is quite likelу that you will forget your password. And then a logical question arises: how do I find my Wi-Fi password? If you can't restore it in your memory or otherwise, you can get wifi password using various methods. For example, go to your router's settings, where network information is stored. You can also use specialized online resources that will provide detailed instructions on how to find or recover your Wi-Fi password. In the meantime, we're going to reveal further ways to secure your network to the fullest.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup. Conveniеnt But Is It Safe?

Despite its convenience, Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a potential vulnerability for your connection. Namely, the Wi-Fi hacker can exploit the vulnerability of this technologу to penetrate your network. Therefore, it is recommended to disable WPS by going to the router settings and finding the correspоnding section. Disabling WPS significantly reduces the risk of hacking your Wi-Fi network.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup Image Credit: depositphotos

Using WPA3 encryption

Using modern WPA3 encryption remains among those that are the most effective ways to protect your Wi-Fi network. This encryption protects your connection from most attacks. People often ask why WPA3 is better than WPA2. Here are the answers:

  • WPA3 offers improved authentication,

  • It is a dictionary-based attack protection,

  • It has an improved function of encrypting data transmitted over a wireless network.

All this makes it much more difficult for hackers.

Using a Guest Network and VPN

By setting up a guest network for visitors, you keep your main connection secure. This reduces the risk of access to your personal information. To set it up, go to your router's settings and create a separate network for guests. Don't forget to restrict access to the main connection. Be sure to create a separate password for the guest network.

A virtual private network is an additional layer of protection for yours. It encrypts all data and ensures user anonymity. This is especially useful for those who frequently use public Wi-Fi networks.

Update the Router Firmware and Monitor Network Connections

Regular firmware updates are another essential step in keeping your wireless connection secure. It allows you to fix vulnerabilities. And they are often exploited by hackers. Firmware updates are also important because new versions contain security improvements and new features that help protect your wireless connection. So, never ignore notifications of new updates.

Also, regularly monitor the devices connected to your network. This will allow you to quickly detect suspicious activity. To do this, use special programs or the built-in functions of your router. If you find an unfamiliar device, immediately disable it and change the password.

What to Do If Your Wi-Fi Is Hacked?

  • Change the password for both your Wi-Fi and router immediately. Instructions for changing the password are given above.

  • Turn off all devices connected to the network. And then reconnect them one by one, checking for suspicious activity.

  • Use special programs to monitor connections to your network.

  • Make sure your router's security settings are activated. In particular, WPA3 encryption. Disable WPS if it is enabled.

  • Consider sometimes using a VPN to further protect your data when you browse.

  • If you are unsure of what to do or have any doubts, don't hesitate to contact a cybersecurity professional for additional help.

Summary

Never neglect the protection of your Wi-Fi network. Even if it is not an instantaneous process, it is a highly necessary one. By implementing the recommended tips and strategies, you will definitelу increase the security of your wireless connection and thus protect your personal data from unauthorized access. And never forget that the security of your network depends on your vigіlance and regular updating of your settings.