Cyber Security is the protection of internet-connected systems, including hardware, software and data, from cyberattacks. Similarly, to physical security, its role is to protect against unauthorized access to computerized systems.
You should always change the Wi-Fi default name and password as it was supplied to you. Changing this makes it harder for malicious attackers to know what type of router you have. If a cybercriminal knows the manufacturer of your router they will know what vulnerabilities that model has and then try to exploit them.
Enable WPA2 or WPA3 encryption and use strong passwords. Also use a strong network administrator password. Most Wi-Fi routers come with default credentials such as “admin” and “password” which are very easy for malicious hackers to break into. Strong passwords are vital to good online security.
You should disable remote access and disable WPS. Also disable DHCP on the router or access point, set a fixed private IP address range instead, then configure each connected device with an address within that range.
Make sure you have turned on the firewall. Modern network routers contain built-in network firewalls, but the option also exists to disable them. So ensure that your router’s firewall is turned on.
You should limit the signal range by placing the wireless router as close as possible to the middle of your house. Why? First of all, it will provide equal access to the Internet to all of the rooms in your home. Secondly, you don’t want to have your wireless signal range reach too much outside your home, where it can be easily intercepted by malicious persons.
Turn off the wireless home network when you’re not at home. Finally, remember that you should always keep your router’s software up-to-date.
Now that your network is reasonable secure you have to make sure that the devices connected to the network are also secure.
Essential cyber security measures for home computers and devices include using genuine operating systems and software, installing antivirus software, setting up automatic updates and patches, removing unnecessary applications and services, such as a webcam, from the device when they aren’t needed. Change any default passwords and set user permissions appropriately.
You should also use password managers; they can only be of benefit to you. Use the Firefox or Chrome web browser, which are built with robust cybersecurity measures in place. Finally, you should make weekly offline backups as a matter of course.
If you follow all of the above, then your overall security will be immeasurably enhanced and you and your family will be safe and secure.
