Knowing how to secure internet gateway is crucial in this day and age. How should you about this task? Let us know below.
How to Secure Internet Gateway
To begin, let us define what an internet gateway is. It refers to the location where the Internet meets our local network. In this case, it is a computer or server that serves as a bridge between the Internet and other computers within its network.
In general, the Internet is considered to be a public space. As such, it is easy for hackers to
breach in and steal information from computers connected to the internet. Thus, you need to secure your internet gateway against attacks from outside.
Here are some tips you can use to secure your internet gateway:
Change Default Settings
First of all, change the default settings of your internet gateway. Hackers often scan for IP addresses of machines with default settings because they are easy to access.
How to do this? The first thing you need to do is change the default login username and password of your router or modem. You can usually locate them on the box or in its manual. This step will make it harder for hackers trying to break into your device.
Next, check if there are any software updates available for your router/modem. This can help you fix bugs that may make it easier for hackers to access your device.
Use Strong Passwords
It is also important that you use strong passwords in securing your devices. Try using a combination of letters and numbers instead of just letters only.
Also, try changing your passwords often so that you will not have to remember them all (you can store them in a notepad file). This way, if someone gets hold of your password, they will likely be unable to use it right away because it will be changed by then.
Disable Unwanted Services
The next thing you should do is disable any unwanted services that you do not need on your internet gateway device or router/modem. This will reduce the number of possible entry points for hackers trying to gain access to your system through these ports.
For example, disable any wireless features if you do not use them at all. As they might provide an opening for someone trying to get in through their wireless feature sets on their wireless equipment at home or workplace. So best turn off all wireless stuff if possible.
Why Secure Internet Gateway
Why, then, is securing the internet gateway important? Firstly, it helps protect your business from cyberattacks and theft. You will surely not want your customers’ information to be stolen right? You will also want to make sure that your business is protected against any cyber-attacks.
Secondly, it can help you avoid paying hefty fines if you do not comply with data protection laws. Take the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as an example.
Lastly, it helps you keep your customers’ information safe at all times. This way, they will be more willing to entrust their information to you as they know that their information is safe with you all the time. So, this puts the impotence of securing the internet gateway even more.