At a glance
Securing your Wi-Fi isn't that complicated. Password, username, WPA, Ethernet... Discover how to strengthen your Wi-Fi security.
Securing your Wi-Fi isn't that complicated. Password, username, WPA, Ethernet... We explain how to strengthen your Wi-Fi security.
Internet inevitably means attempts at hacking or personal data theft. Wi-Fi, found everywhere, at home or in public, is an entry point favoured by hackers. And what about freeloaders who piggyback on your connection without your permission?
If your network is lagging, it might be time to ask yourself: shouldn't you strengthen your Wi-Fi security?
Wi-Fi, in a few words
Wi-Fi is the commercial name for W-LAN (Wireless Local Area Network). Wi-Fi, according to the Le Robert dictionary, is "*a technology that enables wireless communication between various devices (computer, peripheral, TV, etc.) using radio waves".
In everyday language, Wi-Fi has become synonymous with a wireless internet connection. The Wi-Fi network is set up via a router, which is itself connected to the modem. It's this modem that receives the connection from outside to turn it into a usable internet connection at home.
Wi-Fi security: change the name
Your network's name is displayed in full on your router. When setting up your secure Wi-Fi, you can:
- Change the name: don't go for something too simple.
- Hide the name of your network.
By hiding your network's name, you effectively make it invisible from the outside. This will, however, require you to connect manually every time you want to browse the web. So you'll need to write down your network's name and password each time.
How to hide your network's name?
In your network settings panel, look for "SSID" – this is your network's name. You'll need to click on "Invisibility" or "SSID Broadcast". If your panel is in English, click on "Enable SSID Broadcast" and disable it. Your network is now hidden.
A password to secure your Wi-Fi
On your router, your provider has already set a password for Wi-Fi security. This string of numbers and letters, in upper and lower case, is indeed a good start. But be careful: this code is within reach of anyone who visits your home.
To secure your Wi-Fi, remember to change your password. Don't choose a code that's too simple or too obvious. Apply the secure password formula:
Aa (upper and lower case) + 123 (numbers) + #$§ (symbols) + one or more random words
Updating your router to secure your Wi-Fi
As we mention in many articles, updating software is an important step for your online security. This update lets developers fix flaws in the code and close backdoors available to malware.
Internet routers are no exception to the rule. Even though updates almost always happen automatically, nothing stops you from giving your router a quick "OFF-ON". Restarting the system will fetch the latest updates and install them, optimising your Wi-Fi security.
Wi-Fi security with WPA and WPS
A good way to secure your Wi-Fi is also to browse through your router's security options. Of course, for most people, many of the terms aren't easy to understand. Two acronyms are worth remembering, though:
1. WPA - WiFi Protected Access
WPA, created in the 2000s, is a mechanism that protects your Wi-Fi based on complex encryption (AES). This term appears in your settings panel, next to terms such as "security mode".
The security standard is WPA2. WPA3 also exists, and is even more effective than WPA2. If you find this option, enable it!
2. WPS - WiFi Protected Set-Up
WPS is a quick way to set up a connection between your router and another device that supports Wi-Fi. The connection is made by pressing buttons simultaneously, or using PIN codes entered on both interfaces.
The problem with WPS is that it's a backdoor much favoured by hackers. To secure your Wi-Fi, it's therefore recommended to disable the WPS function in your settings panel. Always prefer a connection using your Wi-Fi password.
Where to find the settings panel?
No need to go into your computer's settings. To find your Wi-Fi security options, go to your provider's interface:
A VPN for a secure connection
VPN - Virtual Private Network - is a tool that uses a third-party server, between your computer and the internet, to secure your connection. It can be very useful for remote work, creating a "tunnel" between your computer and your company's interface.
Strictly speaking, a VPN doesn't affect your Wi-Fi security. But it lets you have an anonymous connection or an external IP address, as if you were in the USA or Japan.
VPNs are usually software you download online and install on your computer. Some free antivirus programs also include this feature.
Secure your Wi-Fi, or use Ethernet?
Wi-Fi has an undeniable advantage: its ease of use and connection. But this advantage represents a weakness that's important to secure. To avoid having to secure your Wi-Fi, why not use an Ethernet cable directly?
An Ethernet cable – or RJ45 – is a cable that plugs into the router on one end, and directly into your computer on the other. This cable therefore provides ultra-secure access to the internet. It's physically impossible for a hacker to use your connection... unless they come and plug a cable directly into your home!
However, this solution can cause a few issues:
- many laptops no longer offer the option of plugging in an Ethernet cable.
- smartphones, by their very nature, need to be connected via Wi-Fi.
Nonetheless, we strongly recommend an Ethernet cable connection whenever possible. On top of the security of the connection, you won't have to deal with the unpredictability of Wi-Fi!
As you can see, there are many ways to secure your Wi-Fi. But is Wi-Fi security enough on its own? Don't hesitate to reread our tips for secure remote working!
Article written in collaboration with We are the Words.
