A home network is a network that connects home devices to one another and to the internet. Poor home network security can lead to serious consequences of data theft to financial loss. Nowadays, a wide variety of home devices allows us to get almost anything accomplished from the comfort of our four walls. The downside of having such easily accessible technology solutions is the risk of undying security threats. With that in mind, it is important to stay on top of your security measures and learn how to recognize unusual behavior within the network.
How to Recognize a Threat
If you notice that your home network is slower than usual, it is likely that it has been compromised by some sort of malicious malware or threat. Intruders could take over your network to perform illegal downloads, execute DDoS attacks, or steal your personal information for financial profit. Either way, it is in your best interest to recognize a compromised network as soon as possible to avoid further consequences.
In order to check whether your network was compromised, log into your router by typing your IP address directly into your browser. You should have the username and password written either on the router or the papers that came with it. Once you log in, find Attached Devices and check the Device List to see which devices are connected to your network.
You will have to find the IP address of each of your devices to compare them with the addresses on the list. If you find any devices that you don’t recognize, chances are that someone else has breached your security wall and exploited your network. Make sure your router is using the WEP authentication protocol to ensure higher security and protection against cyber attacks.
Mitigate the Risk
Here are four tips that will help you mitigate the risk of a security breach within your home network:
#1 Update Software Regularly
Keeping your devices up to date will significantly reduce the risk of security threats. Implement the basic security measures on every device connected to your network and you will make it difficult for hackers to breach through. Software updates include important patches and security fixes that will clear the loopholes in your system.
#2 Remove Unnecessary Devices
The best indicator of a compromised network is a slow connection. However, your connection could slow down due to being overwhelmed by too many devices. That’s why it is best to remove any unnecessary devices from your network and keep only the ones you are actively using. That way, it will be easier to recognize a third-party device in case someone connects it to your home network.
#3 Run an Antivirus
Reputable antivirus software can make a significant difference in the security of your home network. This is one of the most important protective measures that should be implemented on all of your devices. Antivirus programs are easy to install and use and most of them provide automatic virus detection. This feature will play an important role in detecting and preventing threats in their early stages.
#4 Set Up a Firewall
Last but not least, install a firewall to protect your home network from external threats. A firewall blocks dangerous activity and prevents malicious traffic from compromising your network. A firewall can be installed on wireless routers and on individual devices connected to the network. If your router already came with an installed firewall, make sure it is not turned off by default.
Overall, protecting your home network comes down to implementing the basic security measures and learning how to recognize the malicious activity. If you are suspecting that your network may have been compromised, consider checking the IP addresses of your devices and start securing your front as soon as possible.
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