🌐 Networks

🛠️ What is it?#

Your home network is the backbone of your digital ecosystem, connecting devices like smartphones, smart TVs, and IoT gadgets to the internet. Your router acts as the central hub, managing this connection. However, if left unsecured, your network becomes an easy target for hackers, malware, and data theft.

🚨 Why is this important?#

An unsecured network is a cybercriminal's playground. Once they gain access, they can:

• Eavesdrop on private communications.
• Steal sensitive data such as passwords and financial information.
• Use your devices as a launchpad for larger attacks.

Securing your network not only protects your devices but also safeguards your personal and financial information.

🛡️ What can I do?#

🟢 Start Here (The Basics)#

1. Change Default Router Settings

   • Rename your network (SSID) to avoid revealing the router’s brand or model.
   • Set a strong, unique admin password. Default credentials like “admin/admin” are easy for hackers to exploit.

2. Enable WPA3 or WPA2 Security

   • Use WPA3 for the latest and strongest encryption. If not available, opt for WPA2.
   • Avoid outdated protocols like WEP, which are easy to crack.

3. Update Router Firmware Regularly

   • Router manufacturers release updates to fix security vulnerabilities. Check for updates in your router's admin settings.

4. Create a Guest Network

   • Allow visitors or IoT devices to connect to a separate network. This isolates them from your primary devices, reducing the risk of cross-network attacks.

5. Use Strong Network Passwords

   • Choose a password with at least 20 characters, combining letters, numbers, and symbols.
   • Avoid common passwords like "password123" or personal details like your name.

🔵 Want Extra Protection? (Leveling Up)#

1. Enable Router Firewalls

   • Most modern routers come with built-in firewalls. Ensure this feature is activated to block unauthorized traffic.

2. Monitor Connected Devices

   • Regularly check which devices are connected to your network. Many routers have an interface to list connected devices—disable any unknown ones.

3. Use a VPN at the Router Level

   • Set up a VPN on your router to encrypt all traffic coming from your network. This provides an additional layer of privacy for every connected device.

4. Disable WPS and Remote Management

   • Turn off Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) and remote router access. Both features are prone to vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

5. Segment Your Network

   • Separate trusted devices, IoT gadgets, and guest users into different sub-networks. This prevents weaker devices, like older smart gadgets, from compromising your primary network.

📚 Handy Tools and Resources#

• Router Security Best Practices: RouterSecurity.org
• Wi-Fi Analysis Tools:
  • NetSpot
  • Fing
• VPN Recommendations:
  • NordVPN
  • ExpressVPN
  • ProtonVPN

✍️ Quick Tips#

• Position your router centrally in your home to reduce the Wi-Fi signal spilling outside your property.
• Turn off your router when it’s not in use, like during vacations.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like online banking unless you’re connected through a VPN.

📝 Checklist#

• Change default router username and password.
• Enable WPA3 (or WPA2) encryption.
• Update router firmware regularly.
• Create a guest network for visitors or IoT devices.
• Enable your router’s firewall.
• Disable vulnerable features like WPS and remote access.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password.
• Monitor connected devices and block any unknown ones.
• Consider using a VPN at the router level.

📖 Sources#

• National Security Agency (NSA) – Home Network Security
• CISA – Secure Our World
• Router Security Best Practices
• The WIRED Guide to Protecting Yourself From Government Surveillance