Secure Your Home Network

 

How many devices in your house connect to the internet?

 

For some of us, the list is short… a few computers, tablets, cell phones, probably a printer.

 

Those of us that have embraced the “connected home” infrastructure would have a far longer list. Things like television sets, thermostats, lighting control panels, surveillance cameras, and even refrigerators are now being manufactured with wireless capabilities front of mind.

 

This inter-connectivity provides infinite opportunities for innovation and modernization, but it also heightens the opportunity for exploitation.

 

The companies who manufacture connected devices prioritize convenience over security. And more often than not, so do the end users.

 

Where should you start when it comes to securing your home network? Here are two basic, easy to implement suggestions.

 

Secure Your Wireless Router

 

Going wireless is a convenient way to allow multiple devices to connect to the internet from different areas of your home. However, unless you secure your router, you’re vulnerable to people accessing information on your computer, using your internet service for free and potentially using your network to commit cybercrimes.

 

Your router comes with a default manufacturer’s password. Changing that password is simple, and it should be the first thing you do when setting up a wireless network at home. You can find reset instructions for your router easily with a quick Google search. Here are instructions for NETGEAR and LINKSYS routers.

 

Keep Software Current

 

Having the latest security software, web browser and operating system is the best defense against viruses, malware and other online threats. Updates are significant for many reasons, but most importantly, they are designed to repair security flaws.

 

Hackers are constantly looking for these security flaws or vulnerabilities in software programs and operating systems. They target these weaknesses until the software company releases a “patch,” or update, to close the vulnerability.

 

You can schedule automatic updates for most operating systems, programs, and web browsers, which we would wholeheartedly recommend.

 

Do you have questions about your network? Leave a comment below, or contact us today!