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Secure Your Network Devices.

Without getting too deep into the woods, there are several basic steps you can take to reduce the chances of an attack on your home network. For instance, your computer and network components have well known default settings that can be exploited and many times are. Hackers look for these settings and you would be amazed how many people aren't aware of them. When a user or Internet Provider sets up your Internet access, they provide you with a router. This is where all of your online connections are funneled. All of your Internet devices go through this if they are part of your network or connected to your wireless service. One problem is that the default password for large Internet providers is well known. Attackers can take advantage of this. You want to change the password on your router as well as your wireless connections.

Router Settings.

Lets start with changing the password on your router. Some of the newer models require you to download the app from your Internet Provider, but whether or not you connect via the Internet providers app, or connect to your router through the network, the process is easy.

Router Password.

This process changes the password to your router. Don't confuse it with your wireless access password. The standard login is usually User="admin, Password="admin". If this isn't the case, contact your Internet provider and they will provide it.
  1. Open your browser and type in the IP address of the router. (Usually 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1)
  2. Log in with the default username and password. Your Internet provider would have provided this.
  3. Find the option to change the Router password.
  4. Enter the new "secure"(link) password and save.

Disable WPS (WiFi Protected Setup).

This feature was created to let users easily connect to your network without a password. You see the security hole? While you're in the router settings, make sure the WPS feature is OFF.

Choose the strongest encryption method for your wireless connections.

It can sound complicated but this setting determines the encryption method used on your wireless network. The outdated methods are WEP and WPA. Choose WPA2 or AES if available. Note: AES is the strongest encryption but older network devices may not be compatible with AES. WPA2 should be a safe setting.

WiFi Password.

This is the password that people need to provide to connect to your wireless network. Within the router settings, make sure a strong but easy to remember password is used. (link) Remember, this is the key to your castle.

IoT (Internet of Things).

The Internet of Things include all network connected devices that aren't necessarily related to your computer. Alexa, Google, Smart TV's, Phones, watches and many, many others. The key here is that they are connected to your network. Make sure use strong passwords and strong encryption. Keep track of which devices are on your network and make sure you know what they are. A strange device on your network is a problem. Most smart home apps (Amazon Echo for example) will let you view smart devices from the app. You can view devices on your network by logging into your router and viewing connections. Make sure there are no connections that you don't recognize.