Many people buy a wireless router, plug it in and forget about it. When you fail to secure your wireless network not only can someone connect and use your network for illegal or malicious activities but they can also steal private information such as user names, passwords, bank account information, social security numbers and other personal information you have stored on your computers and devices. Take a few minutes to secure your wireless network to ensure your safety.

Change the Password: Set a strong, secure password when you get the router and then change it a few times a year.

Remote Administration: Remote administration allows you to log into the router remotely via the internet, most people never use this feature and unless you do, disable it.

SSID: The SSID, short for Service Set Identifier is the name of the wireless network. All routers have a default SSID. You must know the SSID to connect to a wireless network. If there are several wireless networks in range and they have the same SSID it can be confusing when trying to figure out which network is yours. Changing the SSID also adds a layer of security, if a hacker knows the brand of router you have based on the default SSID name they are better able to know what vulnerabilities that particular brand of router has. They can use that information to try and break into your network. Change the default SSID, choose one that is random, do not use your name, address or any other personal information.

SSID Broadcast: The SSID is broadcast to anyone within range of the router, that means your neighbors and anyone close to the router can see your wireless network. Disable SSID broadcast after you have setup and configured your router and successfully connected your computers and other devices. Once disabled, people looking at their list of available wireless networks will no longer see your network listed.

MAC Filtering: MAC filtering allows you to specify which devices are allowed to connect to your network. Each network card has a specific media access control address (MAC address) no two hardware devices use the same one. Log into the router and enter the MAC address for each of your devices allowing them to connect while locking out all others.

Encryption: Encryption encodes the data transmitted between your devices and the router. Use the strongest type of encryption your router supports. Choose a strong, unique preshared key/passphrase. This key will be used by anyone who is connecting to your wireless network.

Wi-Fi Protected Setup: If your router offers Wireless Protect Setup (WPS) disable it, hackers have found a way to exploit this feature.

Device Lists: This lets you see what devices are connected to your router. Review the list often to make sure only your devices are connecting.

Guest Access:  Most routers have a guest access option that lets visitors connect to the internet, If you don’t use guest access turn it off. If you do have guests that need to connect, use this feature, they can connect to the internet but not your network.

Consider Unplugging Your Router at Night or When You Are Away: A router cannot be compromised if it is disconnected. Consider unplugging your router when you leave the house, go on vacation or when you are done using it for the day.

Check for Updates: Manufacturers release firmware updates to improve performance and to address bugs and security issues. Check for updates a few times a year.