In networked times such as today, it becomes imperative to secure the WiFi wireless network connection in an effort to protect business and personal data from cyber-attacks. The wireless network connection, if not secured, exposes susceptible data to illegal use, data theft, and cyber-attacks. Safe WiFi practices protect your network against malware attacks and hackers.
This tutorial discusses numerous WiFi security practices, guidelines, and best practices to secure your wireless network connection from possible threats.
Why is WiFi Security Important?
WiFi networks are gateways to the internet for home, business, and public organizations. But with weak security settings, they are great vulnerabilities for cyber-attackers. A few of the risks created because of unsecured WiFi network connections are:
- Unauthorized Access: Hackers can access networks in an unauthorized manner and abuse bandwidth or steal confidential data.
- Data Interception: Data stolen can be intercepted because it is not encrypted and has sensitive data.
- Malware Infections: Malware is spread by cybercriminals across networked systems.
- Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Hackers can intercept communication and alter data transmission.
Common WiFi Security Practices
Here are the commonly used Wifi security tips:
1. WPA3 Encryption (Newest Security Standard)
The WiFi Protected Access (WPA3) security standard offers superior security than its predecessors (WPA2 and WEP). It adds a higher level of security to the wireless network connection by:
- Shielding encryption against brute-force attacks.
- Using forward secrecy to shield previous sessions.
- Preventing offline dictionary attacks.
Best Practice: Use WPA3 encryption wherever your router and devices permit. Otherwise, use WPA2. Never use WEP since it is vulnerable and easily attacked.
2. Unpredictable and Powerful WiFi Passwords
Weak WiFi passwords may be broken using brute-force attacks.
Best Practice:
- Create a strong, lengthy password containing a mix of letters, numbers, and characters.
- Replace default router passwords during installation.
- Use anything but clichés or personal details.
3. MAC Address Filtering
Media Access Control (MAC) address filtering provides access to a WiFi network connection for only approved equipment through whitelisting their unique MAC addresses.
Best Practice: Enable MAC address filtering as an additional layer of protection. Bear in mind, however, that sophisticated hackers may create false MAC addresses in a bid to beat this security function.
4. SSID Broadcasting Disabling
Service Set Identifier (SSID) is the name for your wireless network connection. If routers advertise this name automatically by default, the network can be exposed to any available device within range.
Best Practice:
- Hide your SSID so unauthorized access will no longer be found.
- Devices must connect the hidden network manually via the use of SSID.
5. Firewall Protection
Most newer routers have built-in firewalls to protect against outside attacks.
Best Practice: Always turn on the router’s firewall settings and include a VPN on a separate network for additional WiFi security.
6. Firmware Updates
Router firmware is updated by the manufacturers, normally, to erase security loopholes and enhance performance.
Best Practice:
- Occasionally, search for and install firmware updates on the router.
- Turn on automatic updates if your router supports this.
7. Utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN protects internet traffic from cyber attacks while online, even when using public WiFi network connections.
Best Practice: Use a VPN when on public WiFi or when additional encryption is needed to safeguard privacy.
8. IoT Device Segmentation
Smart devices and IoT devices get hacked by hackers because of their weak security settings.
Best Practice: Use a guest or alternate IoT network from your home WiFi to prevent smart devices from accessing your master connection.
9. Turning Remote Management Off
Remote management capabilities allow easy remote setup of routers, but in the process turn them into hacker targets too.
Best Practice: Disable router remote access settings whenever possible.
10. Implementing Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Certain premium-class routers offer two-factor authentication (2FA) capabilities to add an extra layer of security.
Best Practice: Enable 2FA to offer a further layer of security for login procedures when it comes to managing networks.
Securing Public and Business WiFi Networks
Public and business WiFi network access links are vulnerable to other security weaknesses because more than one person is accessing the network. Some of the following can be used to secure the networks:
- Guest Networks: Have a guest network to avoid giving unauthorized access to main systems.
- Captive Portals: Have public WiFi user login authentication to enable the ability to monitor and manage access.
- Traffic Monitoring: Employ network monitoring software to monitor suspect traffic.
- End-to-End Encryption: Have sites and apps use HTTPS and other forms of encryption.
Conclusion
Securing a WiFi network connection is a critical step in preventing personal and business information from being accessed by cyberattacks. By using WiFi security functionalities such as WPA3 encryption, safe passwords, MAC filtering, and the utilization of VPN can be significantly minimized. Other than that, proactive measures by constant firmware updating, network segmentation, and disabling unnecessary functionalities round off a well-protected and secured wireless network connection. With these best practices in place, organizations and users are able to have a secure and stable internet platform.
