Archives - Router

Lockdown your router

When you connect a computer to the internet, it’s also connected to millions of other computers—a connection that could allow attackers access to your computer. Although cable modems, digital subscriber lines (DSLs), and internet service providers (ISPs) have some level of security monitoring, it’s crucial to secure your router—the first securable device that receives information […]

Change the preset passphrase on your router

Leaving a default passphrase unchanged makes it much easier for hackers to access your network. You should change it as soon as possible. A strong passphrase is a sentence that is at least 12 characters long. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember (for example, […]

How to protect your smart home

A smart home has a network of devices that communicate and operate with one another seamlessly to provide convenience and efficiency. Since they’re all connected to the internet, these devices are controlled by the homeowner, usually through a smartphone app. Examples of smart home devices include door locks, thermostats, smoke alarms, coffee machines and security […]

Reset your service set identifier (SSID) to a unique name

Using the default service set identifier (SSID) for your wireless router can give malicious parties clues about potential vulnerabilities they could exploit. To change the network name, enter the router’s IP address in your web browser, log in, and switch the SSID to something original that doesn’t contain any personal information or password hints.

Adjust Quality of Service in your router

Some internet routers provide advanced settings that let you determine how certain types of traffic are handled by your network. This functionality, usually called Quality of Service, is useful for ensuring that demanding applications like online games and VoIP or video conferencing get priority.

Use Ethernet if you’re working from home

As work-from-home arrangements become increasingly common, the quality of home internet connectivity is more important than ever. A direct Etherent connection to your router or switch will provide better stability and possibly faster speeds than Wi-Fi – plus it’s immune to certain types of cyberattacks against Wi-Fi security mechanisms. If your laptop lacks a built-in […]