Network Security Key Hacks. How safe are your network connections? Are they secure enough to prevent hackers from stealing your data?
Network security is important because it protects your computer, smartphone, tablet, router, and other devices connected to the Internet. Hackers can access your device remotely without your knowledge. In addition, they can install malicious software (malware) on your device and spy on your activities.
To prevent hackers from accessing your device and stealing your data, you must use strong passwords and encrypt your data.
The following hacks will help you secure your network connections.
Hack 82: Use Your Router’s Built-In Firewall
The best defense against hackers is a good offense
If you have a broadband Internet connection (such as cable or DSL), you probably have a router. Most routers have built-in firewalls that regulate the traffic that enters and exits the router. This allows you to control what traffic gets through the router to access your computer. Without a firewall, anyone can access your computer over the Internet and steal data from it.
If you are using a wireless router, be sure to turn on its built-in firewall. Otherwise, the wireless network will be wide open for anyone to access.
Firewalls are an integral part of network security. Your router’s firewall is like the gatekeeper of your home or office; its job is to screen everyone that gets in or out of your network. The question is: do you use a guard dog or an electronic gatekeeper? It’s up to you!
Hack 83: Get Your Router Up-to-Date
Keeping your router updated with the latest firmware is important for security reasons.
Just like computers, routers can get viruses, worms, and other malicious software that can expose them to hackers or spyware trying to steal information. Most hardware manufacturers release firmware updates for their routers every once in a while; some even require it if you want certain features such as wireless protected setup (WPS) or new features such as dynamic DNS support with DD-WRT. For example, if you want to set up a VPN on your DD-WRT router, you will need firmware version 23sp1 or higher installed on it.
Few tips
Here are a few tips for keeping your router up-to-date:
1=Find out if there is new firmware for your specific model of the router by visiting router-customer-service.
2=If there is new firmware available for your specific model of router, download it from the manufacturer’s website and upgrade it by following the manufacturer’s instructions found in the documentation that came with it when you originally purchased it.
3=If you have a router that supports DD-WRT, upgrade to DD-WRT.
4=If you can’t find the instructions for your model of router and there is no firmware available for it, you can try to upgrade it manually by using a Web browser and your computer’s Ethernet port to access its Web interface. To do this, enter the address bar in your Web browser and enter the default password if prompted. Then, click the Administration tab and select the firmware upgrade option.
Create a router password
Creating a Password for Your Router’s Web Interface
The easiest way to secure your router is to create a password for its Web interface (also known as the administration console). A password will force anyone who wants to access or change your router’s settings to know it before they can do so.
If you haven’t already, follow Hack 83 and upgrade your router to its latest firmware version by downloading and installing it. Also, if you need help finding your specific model of router or downloading the new firmware.