How to Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Network in 3 Steps

Daniel Hollis

Edited by Rabeeca Lee Armstrong

PHOTO BY MIH83 ON PIXABAY

A secure home Wi-Fi network is essential in today’s digital landscape. By following three straightforward steps, anyone can enhance their network’s security and protect their personal information from intruders.

From changing default settings to managing connected devices, these tips will help keep unwanted guests off your network. Take charge of your online safety and ensure your Wi-Fi is as secure as possible.

Change Default Credentials

Changing the default credentials of a Wi-Fi router is essential for security, as the Tweet below indicates:

Secure your WiFi network from unknown users. 🔒 Change your WiFi name and password to prevent others from accessing your connection without your permission. Get more #QuickTips by downloading the Customer User Guide at https://t.co/akmkTWrR7B pic.twitter.com/NmkesY8hTb
— PLDT Cares (@PLDT_Cares) May 27, 2020

Most routers come with preset usernames and passwords, which attackers can easily exploit. These default credentials are often listed in the manual or online, making them vulnerable to unauthorized access.

To secure your router, access its settings by typing the IP address into a web browser. Locate the admin settings and update the username and password. Regular updates help keep your network secure.

Use Strong Encryption (WPA3 Or WPA2)

Using strong encryption is essential for securing a home Wi-Fi network. WPA3 offers advanced protection with 192-bit encryption, making unauthorized access more difficult. WPA2, while older, still provides strong security with 128-bit encryption.

The tweet below highlights how hackers crack Wi-Fi passwords, emphasizing that strong passwords and WPA3 encryption are key to better security:

Ever wondered how hackers crack WiFi passwords? This infographic breaks it down step by step.

Key takeaway: Strong passwords + WPA3 encryption = better security.

Stay protected!#CyberSecurity #WiFiSecurity #EthicalHacking #MWC25 pic.twitter.com/bbJzGO5VPy
— Evan Kirstel #B2B #TechFluencer (@EvanKirstel) February 27, 2025

When setting up a network, choose WPA3 if compatible devices allow it. If not, WPA2 remains a reliable option for keeping data safe.

Disable WPS & Remote Access

Disabling WPS is a smart way to improve Wi-Fi security. While WPS allows easy device connections, it has known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Turning it off in the router settings helps prevent unauthorized access.

Remote access also poses security risks. If not needed, disabling it blocks outsiders from reaching the router’s management panel.

These simple steps reduce potential threats and make home networks more secure. Keeping unnecessary features off is an easy way to strengthen online protection.

This video discusses how to disable WPS on your router: