5 wireless network security basics
- Network Security

Wireless Network Security Basics – 5 Must-Haves

Protect your network: 5 essential components of wireless network security basics

With the number of security threats on the rise, it is crucial to implement a robust strategy to secure your wireless network. A security strategy minimizes the potential for exploitation of internet-connected devices to steal personal information and compromise financial data. Keep reading to discover the must-haves of wireless network security.

A Strong Password

  • Wireless access points and other network devices are commonly pre-configured with a default administrator password to simplify setup. The default passwords can be easily obtained online and provide minimal protection. However, changing default passwords make it difficult for hackers to access a device. Periodic changing of passwords helps reduce the risk of breaches and strengthen your wireless network security.

In addition, a weak password can be easily cracked by hackers. A strong password is at least eight characters long and contains a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using your name, address, or birthdate as passwords. Using a unique password for every account or device is also essential.

Firewall Protection

  • A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It is a barrier between your internal network and the internet, protecting your devices from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. It is essential to install a firewall on your wireless devices and home network.

This makes it difficult for attackers to tap directly into your wireless network. A firewall can be configured only to allow certain types of traffic, such as traffic from specific IP addresses or on certain ports. It can also block traffic from known malicious IP addresses or traffic that matches specific patterns associated with malicious activity.

Updated Firmware

  • Firmware is the software that controls a device’s essential functions and features, such as the router. Outdated firmware can have known security vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit to gain access to your network or personal information. By regularly checking for updates and installing them as soon as they become available, you can ensure that your router is protected against known security threats.

However, some routers automatically check for updates and notify users to install them. Enabling this feature ensures that your router is up to date. Therefore, it is a good idea to enable firmware updates.

A Wireless Repeater

This device rebroadcasts a wireless signal and strengthens the router’s signal to the other floors or buildings. Place a wireless repeater in locations halfway from the router or access point to your device. Wireless repeaters improve the performance of the wireless network and mitigate interruptions.

Disable Remote Management

  • wireless network security basicsBy default, many routers have remote management enabled. Anyone with the router’s IP address and login credentials can access and configure the router from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be a severe security risk, allowing hackers to access your network and steal personal data or use your internet connection for malicious activities.

To mitigate this risk, it is recommended to disable remote management unless it is necessary. You can usually disable this feature in the router’s settings or change the default settings to limit the IP address that can access the router’s web interface. In addition, It’s also a good idea to regularly check the devices connected to your network, monitor the traffic, and consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.

The professionals at Outsource My IT offer Wireless Network Security to companies in New Jersey. Give us a call at 973-638-2722. We have an experienced team of IT specialists who work with you to ensure your network is secure from unauthorized access.