Securing Your Home Network
As we leave 2019 behind, securing your home network is a great project to kickstart the new year. In this post we will cover some of the options available to make your home network safer.
Smart speakers, video doorbells, security cameras, gaming systems, smart locks and plenty of other connected devices were on the most-wanted lists for many homes across the world. Marketing materials, ads and user manuals for this Internet of Things (IoT) devices shows all the amazing things these gadgets can do and how easy they can make our lives, however, they don’t include any information about the risks of having these devices connected to the internet or how to make them safer.
We’re used to talking about cyber security risks on our computers and phones, but the truth is any device connected to the internet is vulnerable to an attack whether it’s a computer or speaker or even a smart fridge. Devices like computers or smartphones come with better security features than other devices, like antivirus, built-in encryption, firewalls and fingerprint readers. Other smart devices don’t come with these features.
Default Passwords or Repeat Passwords = Trouble
Most devices come with preset password from the factory like “1111”, “1234” or “admin” and even “password.” These credentials are often found in the user guide, internet forums or manufactures websites.
As tempting as it is to keep these credentials or use the same password for everything because, let’s face it, who wants to remember another password. Keeping these types of passwords would only make it easier for hackers to get into your devices. Use a strong password that uses symbols, numbers, upper- and lower-case characters, and spaces. Use different passwords for each service.
iCloud Keychain or Chrome Password Manager are free and easy to use tools, to help manage your passwords.
Good Network Equipment
Most people rent their network equipment from the internet service provider (ISP), while this is convenient is not ideal. ISP’s equipment is the same for pretty much every user and is not updated regularly, making it vulnerable to attacks. Most of this device have been in the market for a while so their vulnerabilities are well known and often exploited.
Getting your equipment is an investment but when you consider the long term savings and the extra features is worth it. Look for devices with firewall functions, ad blocking, parental controls and device management these are some of the essential features that will keep your home network safe.
Some of our favorites are: Asus RT-AC3100, Google Nest Wi-Fi, Netgear NightHawk R7000.
For other recommendations feel free to read this blog post as well from the team at Software How
Firewall
A firewall is a network security device that monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic and decides whether to allow or block specific traffic based on a defined set of security rules. Firewalls have been a first line of defense in network security for over 25 years. They establish a barrier between secured and controlled internal networks that can be trusted and untrusted outside networks, such as the Internet.
When it comes to protection IoT devices a physical firewall helps protect devices without the ability to run a software firewall.
UniFi Security Gateway: This enterprise level device comes with a very affordable price tag $139, some of the main features are cloud management, small profile, relatively easy configuration, guest network support and flexible uses when integrated to other UniFi products. A good choice for medium to advance users.
Firewalla: This device is one of the easiest ones to install for user without a lot of IT knowledge and the entry level version called Firewalla Red often goes on sale for $99 compared to the regular price of $129. Firewalla offers parental controls, Virtual Private Network (VPN), Ad Block and Family Time all managed from a very intuitive mobile app. The installation process is very easy with only a couple cables and their installation videos are very helpful. Definitely a good choice for entry level users.
Firmware or Software Updates
Often manufacturers discover vulnerabilities on their devices, once a solution to the vulnerability is found a software or firmware update is released to bring those changes to the device. By keeping your devices updated, you can maintain your devices safe.
Knowledge Equals Power
When it comes to cyber security knowledge is power, the more you know about your networks and devices, the easier it becomes to protect them. Researching before buying and ensuring that you’re getting a quality device with adequate support, sometimes low-quality devices with very low-price tags can be tempting, creating a security risk on your home network.
Becoming familiar with the potential risks associated with smart home devices is also important, the more familiar you are with these threats the more you can avoid them.
If you have children or not so tech-savvy users in your household, teaching them how to identify and avoid potential threats is very important, there’s plenty of articles and videos to leverage for this.
