How to Secure Your Wireless Network? | Expert Tips for a Secure Network

It is crucial task to prevent your Wireless Network from unauthorized access and make your data and Wireless Network secure from potential threats. 

In digital age, Everyone is worried about the potential breaches and unauthorized access to our sensitive information from browsing the web to conducting financial transactions. Although, many technologies are developed that protects against the unauthorized access. You can also take some steps the increase your wireless network security.

What is Wireless Network ?

Wireless Network also known as Wi-Fi-Network ( ) , is the type of computer network in which allows devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other without any physical connections.

Wireless Security Protocols

There are several types of Wi-Fi security protocols that have been developed over the years to secure wireless networks from unauthorized access and data interception. The most common types of Wi-Fi security are:

1. Open:

There is no security enabled in Open Wi-Fi Network, anyone within range can connect to it without any authentication or encryption. These networks are highly discouraged for anything because they welcome attackers to steal your data.

2. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy):

WEP was one of the earliest Wireless security protocols but is now it is considered as weak and easy to breach. It uses a shared key for encryption, but the key can be cracked by attackers if they know the key.



3. WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access): 

WPA is a security protocol designed to improve the security of wireless networks over the previous WEP protocol. WPA was introduced to address the weaknesses of WEP before the more robust WPA2 and WPA3 protocols were developed. it comes with two versions.

• WPA-PSK (Pre-Shared Key):

WPA-PSK Also known as WPA-Personal, this version uses a pre-shared key (PSK) to authenticate devices. The same key is entered into all devices wishing to join the network. It is commonly used in home networks or small businesses. where it is more convenient to manage security.

• WPA-Enterprise:

This version is designed for large network, where a RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) server is used for authentication. It provides a high level security because it requires every user to have unique login credential to the network. This method is more reliable for large organizations having multiple users and devices connecting to the network.



4. WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2):

   WPA2 is the advance version of WPA and most widely used and recommended security protocols for Wireless networks. It has strong encryption standards and came with several security features than WPA.

5. WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3):

WPA 3 is the latest version WPA 2. It is designed to increase wireless security. It was introduced to address the security weaknesses found in WPA2 and to provide stronger and more robust security for wireless networks.

14 Steps to Secure Your Wireless Network

Securing a wireless network is crucial to prevent unauthorized access and protect your data from potential threats. Here are some essential steps to secure your wireless network:

Change Default Router Login Credentials:

The first step is to change the default username and password of your router. Default credentials are often well-known and easily accessible online, making it easy for attackers to gain access.

Read Also: How to Change the Router Setting ( Admin, Password )

Use Strong Encryption:

Ensure that your wireless network is using strong encryption protocols like WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) or WPA3. Avoid using WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) as it is outdated and easily compromised.

Create a Strong Wi-Fi Password:

Use a long, complex, and unique password for your Wi-Fi network. A strong password should include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

Enable Network Encryption:

In addition to Wi-Fi encryption, enable network encryption for sensitive data and communication. Utilize secure protocols like HTTPS for web browsing and SSL/TLS for email and other online services.

Change Default SSID:

The SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name of your wireless network. Change the default SSID to something unique and avoid using personal information that could be easily traced back to you.

Disable SSID Broadcasting:

By disabling SSID broadcasting, you make your network less visible to casual users. However, keep in mind that this is not a foolproof security measure, as determined attackers can still find hidden networks.

Enable MAC Address Filtering:

MAC address filtering allows you to specify which devices are allowed to connect to your network based on their unique MAC addresses. Although this can be circumvented by determined attackers, it adds an extra layer of security.

Update Router Firmware Regularly:

Keep your router's firmware up to date. Manufacturers release updates that often include security patches to address vulnerabilities.

Disable Remote Administration:

Unless necessary, disable remote administration of your router. This prevents attackers from accessing your router's settings from outside your home network.

Position the Router Wisely:

Place your router in a central location in your home and away from windows to minimize the signal leakage outside your premises.

Use a Guest Network:

If your router supports it, set up a guest network for visitors. This segregates their access from your primary network and keeps your devices and data more secure.

Firewall Protection:

Enable the router's built-in firewall to block unauthorized access and potentially malicious traffic.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

If your router supports 2FA, enable it for an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Regularly Check Connected Devices:

Periodically review the list of connected devices in your router's settings to ensure only your authorized devices are connected. 

By following these steps, you can significantly improve the security of your wireless network and reduce the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches. Keep in mind that no network is entirely immune to attacks, so it's essential to stay vigilant and keep your security measures up to date.