The threat of the Internet extends not only to businesses but also to ordinary households. In today’s world, where every device in your home, such as smart home appliances and network cameras, is connected to the Internet, security measures for your home network are essential. We have compiled a list of basic security measures to help you use the Internet with peace of mind.

1. Review the Wi-Fi router settings The top priority is to strengthen the defense of your Wi-Fi router, which is the gateway to your home network. ・Change the password for the administration screen: Be sure to change the initial password (such as admin) for logging into the router’s settings screen to a complex one. ・Firmware update: Always keep the program (firmware) that runs your router up to date to prevent vulnerabilities. Modern routers often have an automatic update feature, so make sure it’s turned on. ・Use a strong encryption method: Please use “WPA3” or “WPA2-AES”, which is currently the safest Wi-Fi encryption method. Never use WEP, as it can be decrypted within seconds.

2. Update of connected devices and password management Regularly update the OS and software of PCs and smartphones, as well as IoT devices such as smart TVs and network cameras. Also, it is extremely dangerous to continue using the initial password. If a network were to be infiltrated, it would be easy to take over.

3. Utilization of guest port (guest network) If you want to let friends use Wi-Fi when they come to visit, use the “Guest Port” function. This is a function that provides a dedicated Wi-Fi isolated from the home’s main network (the network to which PCs, NAS, etc. are connected) for temporary users.

By paying a little attention to your home network environment, you can significantly improve your security level. Please check your settings once during the holidays.