How to Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Router

Your router is the front door to your home network. These steps take a few minutes and greatly improve security.

Change the default admin password

Routers often ship with a well-known default login. Sign in to the router's settings page, usually shown on a label on the device, and change the admin password to a unique, strong one.

Use strong Wi-Fi encryption

Choose WPA3 if your router and devices support it, or WPA2 with AES otherwise. Avoid the old WEP and open (no password) options.

Set a strong Wi-Fi password

Use a long passphrase that is not related to your name or address. Do not leave the default password if it is printed on a label that visitors can see and you have shared it widely.

Update the firmware

Router firmware contains security fixes. Check the settings page for updates, or enable automatic updates if available. If your router is no longer supported by the manufacturer, consider replacing it.

Turn off features you do not use

• WPS (push-button setup) can be a weakness.
• Remote administration, unless you really need it.
• UPnP, if you do not need it for specific apps.

Use a guest network

Many routers offer a separate guest network. Use it for visitors and smart home devices, so they are kept apart from your computers and phones.

Check connected devices

Look at the list of connected devices occasionally. If you see something you do not recognise, change your Wi-Fi password.

Restart occasionally

Restarting a router can clear minor problems. If you often need to, the router may be failing or overloaded.

This article is for general information only and is not professional advice. Features, prices and menu names may change between software versions. See our disclaimer.