Home network security hub

Your modem/router is one of the most important gadgets in your home, keeping you and your devices connected. If your router or home network gets compromised by a hacker or even a neighbor attempting to join your network, it puts all of your connected devices at risk. With that in mind, here are some of the best ways to keep your home WiFi network secure.

Tips for home WiFi security

Resources for a secure network

7 tips for home WiFi security

Whether you’re working or learning from home, an avid gamer, or a media fanatic, a strong and secure home WiFi network is crucial to your success. The web is a playground for hackers and malware, which can put your private information at risk. Read these seven things you can do to increase your home network security.

1. Change the name of your WiFi network

One of the first things you can do to improve your WiFi security is to change the network name (SSID) of your personal WiFi network. You can do this by signing into your modem’s settings portal and going into the Wireless Setup area. Under Basic Settings or SSID Setup, you can enter a custom name into the “Network Name” field.

2. Set a strong password for your WiFi

Most wireless routers come with a preset default password. To enhance cybersecurity, consider changing the default to a strong, unique password that potential hackers are less likely to guess or decode. You can change your WiFi password in two ways: through the CenturyLink app or in the Wireless Setup area of your modem settings. Be sure to avoid using the same password that you already use for other accounts, as this makes it easier for a hacker to access your information across devices or platforms.

3. Keep your router firmware up-to-date

Firmware is the special software that keeps your router running. Updates often include new security protections, so your router can become more vulnerable to threats and cyberattacks if this firmware gets outdated. Routers typically update their firmware automatically, but it’s a good idea to log into your modem's Utilities area to check for firmware updates from time to time.

4. Watch for unknown device connections

Many modem/router manufacturers have tools that allow you to grant access to the network, or create a guest network. Consider using the router's online settings or an app to monitor any unauthorized devices joining your home network. Some CenturyLink customers with newer modem models can do this with Secure WiFi.

Blog: How to know if someone is using your network

5. Set the best WiFi security type

Learn which encryption and security settings are best for your WiFi network. Wireless encryption is a set of protocols on your router designed to secure your network and protect your data from hackers.

The security settings for your wireless network will typically show encryption choices of WPA2 and WPA3. These differ in speed, performance, and the level of protection they offer. For most users today, WPA3 is the best option, with the most secure method of encryption.

6. Disable remote access

Some modems come with remote administration enabled, which allows you to access your network settings while away from home. However, if you can access your home WiFi network from anywhere in the world, this means a cybercriminal might as well. One way to strengthen your home WiFi security is to disable remote access, at least while you're at home.

For most CenturyLink modems, you can find this setting, called "Remote GUI," in the Advanced Setup section of the user interface. See detailed instructions to disable remote access.

7. Turn off the router when it's not in use

This suggestion may sound surprising, but if you’ll be away from home for more than a few days, consider turning off your router. This can help to prevent outside attackers from being able to access and exploit your home network while you aren't there to monitor it.

Discover resources that can help protect your network security

To reduce your chances of getting hacked and having important information stolen, explore our resources on home network security.

CenturyLink Security by McAfee is available for free to all CenturyLink High-Speed Internet customers for protection against malware, viruses, unsafe websites, and other online threats.

Learn how to download your free copy of McAfee.

Secure WiFi provides automatic protection against online threats for all of the devices connected to your home WiFi network (including those without a display). It also gives you more control over the devices in your home.

Secure WiFi is available on certain compatible modems leased from CenturyLink.

Learn more about the benefits and features of Secure WiFi.

In the age of smart devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home^™, you may also want to consider how these smart home devices are secured while connected to your home WiFi network. This is where a smart home hub could come in handy. This hub can organize and consolidate your smart home devices so that you can control them from one place. Ensure that these smart devices are all password-protected on a secure WiFi network to avoid any potential cyberattacks.