How to secure Wi-Fi networks

Latest update: July 18, 2024 ID: 12779
 
 
 
 

When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network (for example, in a cafe), your data is transferred unencrypted. This means that your logins, passwords, messages, and other sensitive information can be accessed by malefactors. Your email addresses may be used for sending spam and the contents of your social network page may be changed.

Home wireless networks are also at risk, as even the the highest level of protection for wireless networks (WPA2 encryption) can be hacked using the KRACK method of key reinstallation. For more information, see this post on the Kaspersky blog.

When connecting to a Wi-Fi network, you should always follow these recommendations:

  • Make sure that you have installed and enabled Firewall. This protection component scans network traffic and protects the computer against network attacks.
    Firewall is included in the following Kaspersky applications: Kaspersky Internet Security, Kaspersky Anti‑Virus, Kaspersky Total Security, Kaspersky Security Cloud and Kaspersky Small Office Security.
  • Use a secure HTTPS connection. Check that a green or gray padlock icon is displayed in your browser’s address bar. For more information, see this post on the Kaspersky blog.
  • Secure your connection by using a VPN, which adds another level of encryption. To do so, install Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection on your device and enable a secure connection each time you connect to the Internet.
  • If you are using a Windows operating system, disable file and printer sharing for all public networks you connect to. See the Microsoft support website for instructions.
  • Use mobile Internet instead of public Wi-Fi networks when possible.

Below you will find a list of recommendations on how to configure your router to make your home Wi-Fi network secure.

 
 
 
 

Set a strong password for accessing your router

 
 
 
 

Give your Wi-Fi network a unique name (SSID)

 
 
 
 

Hide your Wi-Fi network

 
 
 
 

Disable WPS

 
 
 
 

Enable encryption

 
 
 
 

Set a strong password for your Wi-Fi network

 
 
 
 

Enable MAC filtering

 
 
 
 

Reduce the range of your Wi-Fi signal

 
 
 
 

Update your router’s firmware

 
 
 
 

Change the key and the security type of the Wi-Fi network in Windows

 
 
 
 
 
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