Is your network ready for anything?

When someone new enters your home, there are questions they always ask: first, should they take their shoes off? And second, what’s the Wi-Fi password?

Make sure you’re ready to answer at least one of those questions by securing your network with these simple steps:

Remember:

Your network runs through a router. And every  router is different. If you’re having trouble with any of these steps, visit the manufacturer’s website for your router.

1. Open your router console

When connected to Wi-Fi, enter your router’s IP address into the address bar on your internet browser.

Don’t know your IP?

Router IP addresses aren’t unique. A quick web search of your router’s brand should give you the info you need.

2. Log in

Enter your username and password. If you’ve never changed these, there’s a good chance they’re printed on the back of your router or found on the manufacturer’s website.

3. Find the security settings

Your router might call this section something like Wireless Security.

4. Rename your router

If you haven’t already, give your network a new name or SSID. This name can be as simple or silly as you want, but don’t include any personal information like your address.

5. Use a passphrase

Use a passphrase for your router’s password. This is especially important if you’ve never changed it before!

A passphrase:

• Is a sequence of mixed words, with or without spaces
• Is at least 4 words and 15 characters long
• Does not need any special characters or capitals
• Does not use common expressions like song titles or lyrics

If your router puts restrictions on your password, try to use at least 8-12 characters, upper- and lower-case letters , numbers and symbols, with no words found in a dictionary or personal info.

6. Change your encryption

Under the Network Authentication setting, choose WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Personal.

If you don’t see a WPA2-PSK or WPA2-Personal option, you may need to upgrade your router to stay as secure as possible.

7. Create a guest network

Keep your personal network protected. Create a separate guest network to allow your smart devices and visitors access to the internet, but not your sensitive personal information!

Many routers have a checkbox in the settings to turn on a guest network. Make sure to give your guest network a unique name and password.

8. Save your settings

Click Save or Apply to save the changes. You may need to reboot your router.

9. Get Connected (again)

Connect your personal devices to your personal network, and your smart devices (and your guests!)  to your guest network.

Securing your Wi-Fi networks is an important step to keeping all your connected devices safe!

Get more tips at GetCyberSafe.ca

Communications Security Establishment | Centre de la sécurité des télécommunications

Government of Canada