You only need to make some simple changes to your digital lifestyle to avoid most router attacks. Preventing routers from being hacked is much simpler than dealing with the consequences of being hacked.

Learn how to use these useful tips to prevent Wi Fi hackers and enhance router protection:

Create a new administrator username and password for your router

Once you have a new router, set a new management password. Hackers know the default passwords for all popular routers, and they can try them on your router. If the router you buy is second-hand, update the password to prevent previous users. If possible, you can also modify the admin username.

Follow strong password creation practices to prevent anyone from guessing your password. Long passwords of at least 15 to 20 characters are difficult to crack.

Also create a brand new password for your router - do not reuse the password of another account. Some router vulnerabilities may leak your password, and you don't want hackers to get the keys to your finance, email, or social media account.

Disable remote access settings

Can you think of why you need to log in to the router's management settings when you are not next to the router? If not, then there is no reason to open this window to others. Check if remote access is turned off, so you can only log in to the router through old-fashioned network cables or Wi Fi networks.

Ditch WPS

WPA3 and its predecessor WPA2 are reliable security - of course, it depends on your password - but we cannot say that WPS (Wi Fi protection settings) is also the same. Connecting to a device by pressing a button or entering a password is certainly convenient, but far from secure.

Compared to cracking your powerful and unique password, hackers need much less time to crack short passwords. If you have a WPS button, it means that anyone near your router can connect to it within a few seconds.

If your router allows it, completely disable WPS and use WPA3 or WPA2 passwords to protect your router.

Change the network name (SSID) of the router

Keeping the default SSID (the name of your Wi Fi network) is a blessing for potential router hackers as it allows them to know which type of router you are using. On the contrary, once you have completed changing the router's login credentials, set a new SSID. Longer and more complex names are better because they can also enhance WPA security.

Of course, create a long and unique network password. Set a password of at least 15 to 20 characters. The longer your password, the harder it becomes to crack.

Updating the router (and its firmware)

If you are using an older router that does not support WPA2, you should upgrade. Older devices are more susceptible to hacker attacks, and using the latest model of router is more secure. If you purchased a second-hand router, please change your administrator password, SSID, and network password as soon as possible.

The same applies to the firmware of the router. Regularly check the router manufacturer's website to see if firmware updates are available. If so, please update it. This can prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities in old firmware versions. Updating routers is also a good way to enhance weak Wi Fi signals at home.

Set up router firewall

A firewall is an internet blockade that isolates your network from unwanted traffic. Use a simple router firewall that only allows connections requested by your device to pass through your router. Many routers already have built-in firewalls, so all you need to do is enable it in the router's management settings.

After activating the router firewall, your network will be protected from unnecessary and potentially malicious internet traffic.