It’s surprising how much we don’t know about something we use regularly, but then again, is it really that surprising? You don’t have to understand Wi-Fi to use it; however, it definitely wouldn’t help. Whenever you visit a cybersecurity advice page, you always hear tips like – don’t use Wi-Fis you don’t know, etc., which already indicates that some threats are present. Still, what are these threats, and how do you avoid them? Here are the top seven tips for better Wi-Fi use (both at home and outside).
Use of a VPN when accessing new Wi-Fi
The use of a VPN adds an extra layer of encryption in transit, which means that it will boost your digital resilience quite a bit when accessing new Wi-Fi.
If it were just your data, this wouldn’t be as problematic. However, many people are working from coffee shops and public spaces. In this scenario, they’re using corporate intellectual property, which means that they’re in an even more dangerous scenario.
It’s also important to understand how you use these Wi-Fi networks. Your desktop computer probably doesn’t even have a Wi-Fi card but connects to your router via an ethernet cable. In other words, it comes down to your laptop or mobile device. According to tech specialist Nick Saraev from Techopedia, this is why you need to focus on finding the top mobile VPNs instead of just settling for any kind of VPN.
The use of a VPN when browsing is generally a safer way to use the internet.
Change your Wi-Fi password regularly.
Regularly changing your Wi-Fi password prevents unauthorized access from people who previously knew the password but are no longer allowed to access your Wi-Fi. Some people can be incredibly malicious, and an ex can turn into a stalker. They could also use your Wi-Fi to upload/download illegal content online so that they can incriminate you.
This limits the risk of hacking or, at the very least, eliminates one potential way they could hack you.
It also ensures your network stays secure with a cascading army of visitors passing through your home.
Most importantly, it encourages good security habits. Many people just create a password and never think twice about it.
Now, if you haven’t changed it in a while, you might want to check your password out. Auditing your password and changing it from something meaningful to something difficult to break is an even greater idea.
Use a guest network for visitors
Instead of having to change the password every time a first-time visitor leaves, why not use a guest network for visitors? This keeps your main network secure and gives you less to worry about.
When visitors connect to a guest network, they are kept isolated from your personal devices like computers, smart TVs, and phones. This means they can’t inadvertently access or interfere with the files and settings on your private network.
A guest network allows you to manage how much bandwidth your visitors can use, preventing them from slowing down your internet connection. This ensures that your main network remains fast and responsive, even when you have multiple guests online.
With a guest network, you can more easily monitor who is connected and what they’re doing online. This added control can help you manage your network more effectively, ensuring that your Wi-Fi is being used appropriately. Just keep in mind that you shouldn’t pry too much. Sure, they’re using your network, but they’re still entitled to privacy.
Position your router for optimal coverage
Picking the right position for your router reduces dead zones in your home. You see, the biggest difference between Wi-Fi use and ethernet internet is the consistency of connection. Still, by just walking around the place, it’s pretty easy to recognize dead zones and problematic areas around the place.
Positioning your router correctly can help distribute the Wi-Fi signal more evenly throughout your home. By avoiding obstacles like walls and large furniture, you’ll enjoy consistent connectivity in every room rather than struggling with weak spots.
A well-placed router can dramatically improve your Wi-Fi use. When your router is positioned away from interference and in an optimal location, you’ll notice faster speeds, fewer interruptions, and a more stable connection for all your devices. Moreover, it enhances connection stability.
Another thing you need to consider is using Wi-Fi extenders. Sure, they reduce your connection by 50%; however, this will still be more than enough for most uses. Just place it so that you cover the entirety of your home.
Update your router firmware regularly
When it comes to internet security, most people fixate too much on the importance of software. Sure, digital threats seem the most frightening when they’re up against digital protections. However, working on your router firmware on a regular basis actually fixes security vulnerabilities beyond what you would expect.
Firmware updates often include improvements that enhance your router’s performance. These updates can optimize your router’s speed, increase its range, and ensure that all your connected devices are running as smoothly as possible, providing a better internet experience.
Keeping your router’s firmware up-to-date ensures that you’re benefiting from the latest features and improvements. These updates might add new functionalities or enhance existing ones, giving you access to the best possible Wi-Fi use your router can offer.
This is really the only thing that keeps your network secure, and it’s a process that you should never skip.
Disable WPS for added security
Now, WPS is used to pair your router to an extender; however, it could expose your router to additional threats. Disabling WPS prevents brute-force attacks where hackers use software to repeatedly try and guess PINs to gain access to your network. When WPS is off, your Wi-Fi becomes a lot harder to crack.
While convenient, WPS can be a security risk if not properly managed. By disabling it, you significantly limit unauthorized access to your network, ensuring that only those with the actual Wi-Fi password can connect.
When WPS is disabled, you’ll need to rely on more secure connection methods, such as manually entering the Wi-Fi password. This small inconvenience is worth it for the increased security and peace of mind that comes with knowing your network is better protected.
Use Wi-Fi analyzer tools to optimize performance
Wi-Fi analyzer tools help you identify areas of network congestion. This means that you get to spot areas where multiple devices are competing for the same channel. By pinpointing these areas, you can adjust settings to reduce interference and boost your overall Wi-Fi performance.
Wi-Fi analyzers can show you where your signal strength is strongest and where it might need improvement. With this information, you can reposition your router or add extenders to boost signal strength and speed, ensuring a better connection throughout your home. This means that its use can ensure a better connection.
The Wi-Fi analyzer optimizes the overall Wi-Fi experience by giving you the insight you need to improve your setup.
Tampering with your Wi-Fi might be the best idea ever
If your internet ever gets you into trouble, nine times out of ten, it will have to do something with Wi-Fi. So, learning how to make the system sounder and the entire experience more secure might be one of the most important things you can do. Overall, setting up your Wi-Fi better might be the best thing you could do.
