I’m a Wi-Fi expert – common router setup mistake is ‘security nightmare’ and ‘increases chance of hack’
A SECURITY expert has revealed some important specialist advice to apply when you’re setting up a Wi-Fi router.
It could help you avoid a common mistake that hackers rely on.
Security expert James MacKay is the COO of MetaCompliance.
He revealed his tip on a Meta Compliance blog.
MacKay wrote: “When you are initially setting up your home network you will be asked to create a publicly visible network name, otherwise known as a SSID (Service Set identifier).
“Most devices are configured with a default network name that has been allocated by the manufacturer.”
The expert highlighted that some popular routers have the same SSID.
That means you could end up with the same one as your neighbors which can be problematic.
MacKay explained: “There’s a good chance that if your neighbours have a device from the same manufacturer they will also have the same SSID which could be a security nightmare if both networks are unencrypted.”
That’s why he advises using a feature to hide your Wi-Fi SSID.
It will allow you to hide your network name from the people around you.
That includes neighbors, strangers passing your home, and also any cybercriminals looking for a Wi-Fi network to hack.
MacKay wrote: “Changing the default name makes it a lot more difficult for a hacker to know what type of router you have, reducing the chance of attack.”
Changing your router’s default settings should be easy.
Generally, you need to find out your router’s IP address and type that into a web browser to access an admin page.
Use your router’s username and password to log in and access the security settings.
You should see the default SSID name in a section of the menu regarding your router’s Wireless Network Name.
Click here to change it to something you prefer.
You can also use the steps above to find the setting that hides your network from view.