Do you regularly use a wireless network for your house or workplace? If so, let us tell you that it is of the utmost importance to protect your network against hijackers looking for stealing your sensitive data. Sensing this need, we have come up with this post to provide you various ways for creating a solid security wall around your WiFi connection.
Note: In order to get the most of below-given tips and tricks, you have to log in to admin console i.e. mywifiext. For accessing this web user interface, you need to enter current username and password in given fields.
1. Change your network name
Abbreviated as SSID, Service Set ID is the name of your wireless network. Changing the default name to new one prevents snoopers from getting their hands on your confidential information. On the other hand, if you continue with the same SSID, you are giving a free opportunity to hijackers to target you. Don’t hesitate to turn off SSID broadcasting function as doing so will help you keep general cyber-terrorists at bay.
2. Change admin password
Most of the routers, even from different manufacturers, come with the same admin password. Despite the fact that it is very simple and easy to remember, it is equally simple for attackers to guess. You will probably be amazed to know that there is a public database of over 500 manufacturers. This database consists of default login details of almost all vendors. However, you can create a strong password by mixing letters and numbers. Keep in mind to change password of both your WiFi network and router admin. If you find it quite difficult to remember passwords, it’s recommended to note them down on a paper and keep them safe.
3. Restrict DHCP Leases to your devices
DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. It allows you to limit the number of IP addresses which your access point is able to allocate to other devices. Thus, it makes it simpler than ever to handle how many devices can join your network at any given time. Keep a watch over the number of wireless devices you use in your house and after that, head over to DHCP settings page on mywifiext.net website and finally, modify the number of client leases as per your preferences.
4. Turn on WPA2 encryption
Security experts always give an advice to encrypt network traffic through WPA2 encryption. It provides superior protection as compared to older WPA and WEP technologies. In case you have to make a choice between several WPA2 versions like WPA2 Enterprise and WPA2 Personal, keep in mind to go with the setting that is most relevant for your connection.
5. Block WAN requests
The next tip to safeguard your network while performing Netgear extender setup is turn on block WAN requests feature. It hides the connection from unauthorized access. Once you enable this function, the access point will not reply to IP requests by remote users. Thus, it averts hijackers from gaining a full access to your sensitive information. After that, turn off remote administration advantages by means of the web user interface and lock it down. Doing so will compel anyone seeking to change your network settings to make a wired connection between router and computer. Hence, no one will be able to customize your saved settings and attack your connection. Continue to change your network name along with password every six months or prior and enjoy the fast speed of Internet without any fear of hacking.
6. Turn on MAC filtering
Every WiFi capable equipment includes a MAC address known as Media Access Control address. It is different for each device and contains 6 couples of alphanumeric characters. As soon as you enable MAC filtering function, you are able to put a limitation on your network to accept only particular devices. It is also used to improve your WiFi range and coverage. Check the manual to find out the MAC address of your device.
So, these were our surefire ways to lock down your wireless network. If you have your own tips, don’t forget to share them with us or your fellow readers. We will definitely include them in our list. These tips are surely going to help you no matter whether you are using new extender setup or router to get a reliable Internet speed.
