5 Tips for Securing Wireless Networks

These days, almost everyone has an internet-connected device. Since people rely on a wireless internet connection for nearly everything, it’s becoming increasingly critical to learn how you can maintain Wi-Fi safety and security.

Hackers are always looking for ways to exploit your security flaws to access your personal information and data. An unsecured business or home Wi-Fi network is susceptible to unauthorized access. With wireless security, you can keep unwanted users from gaining access to your network and only make it accessible to authorized persons. Here are tips for securing wireless networks.

1.   Choose a reliable wireless system vendor

The wireless service vendor you chose to design, install, and support your wireless network plays a crucial role in its security. When selecting a network provider, examine their certifications to ensure they’re certified to handle the product you want to install. Consider the software they use to validate wireless system performance after installation.

A reliable wireless network vendor such as McKinstry Wireless should be able to plan, build, and install a wireless system that allows you to securely share data from anywhere within your facility and the surrounding areas.

2.   Don’t use default passwords

A hacker can quickly figure out your wireless router’s manufacturer default password then use it to gain access to your wireless network, compromising personal or business information and assets. This is why it’s necessary to change the router’s administrator password. When choosing a new password, select a complex one that isn’t easy to guess. Periodically changing your passwords will also help secure your wireless network, keeping your personal and business data secure.

Broadband Genie recently carried out a survey that revealed 48% of people have not changed a single setting including default passwords.  The 2022 router security survey showed 73% of people who haven’t changed the password didn’t know why they would ever need to.

3.   Encrypt your network data

Wireless data encryption prevents anyone who gains access to your network from viewing any information. The encryption protocols used to achieve this protection are WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), WPA2, and WPA3. These protocols encrypt the data transmitted between wireless devices and routers. Since WPA3 is the strongest of all the protocols, using devices that specifically support it secures your wireless network. While WPA and WPA2 are available in the market, using them could expose your network to exploitation.

4.   Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

With a VPN, you can privately and securely communicate over unencrypted and unsecured networks. This is because a virtual private network encrypts your data, making it difficult for hackers to find your location or what you do online. It also alters your IP address to make it look like you’re using a computer or any other connected device from a location different from where you are. You can also use a VPN whenever you use public Wi-Fi for data protection.

5.   Protect your SSID

When you publicize your SSID (Service Set Identifier), you make it easy for outsiders to access your network. All wireless network routers allow users to preserve their SSIDs, making it hard for cybercriminals to attack your networks. Make your SSID unique rather than using it as set by the manufacturer because a potential hacker can identify your router type then exploit the known vulnerabilities.

Endnote

Wireless networks allow you the convenience to virtually connect with other devices or access the internet. However, unsecured networks are prone to hacking attacks. Use these tips to secure your wireless network.