How to protect your home network and devices

After a spree of major cybersecurity attacks in the past year, you might be wondering how to protect yourself. Here’s a look at the defensive steps you can take, and the devices that can help.

How to protect your home network and devices
  • Is Wi-Fi secure? It can be, but public hotspots are wide open. In addition, criminals often set up false hotspots to harvest sensitive data.
  • What is a VPN? A VPN, or virtual private network, allows you to connect to the internet via a proxy. This makes it very difficult for anyone to trace or hack your connection.
  • What is the best way to protect my home network? Change the name of your network, change your router password, and switch to WPA2 protocol.

Although digital crime leaves no physical trace, it can be as emotionally and financially punishing as a home invasion. For most of us, the idea of someone holding your files ransom or accessing your personal emails is a frightening thought.

Thankfully, there are ways to protect yourself. As the hackers get smarter, so does the technology that is designed to stop them. Here is a look at how to protect your home network and your devices.

How do you protect your devices?

There are several ways to protect your digital data. Step one is to secure your connection. This means using the latest Wi-Fi protocols on your home network, and installing a VPN.

How to protect your home network and devices

Use a VPN for security

Switching your Wi-Fi protocol is pretty straightforward. Simply log in to the admin dashboard of your router and choose WPA3, WPA2, or WEP (in order of preference).

[tweet_box]Here is a look at how to protect your home network and your devices[/tweet_box]

Setting up a VPN is a little more complicated, but it should only take a few minutes. Alternatively, you can use a plugin device to handle the technical side — see below for a couple of examples.

It’s also important to keep your anti-virus software up to date, and maintain good password hygiene.

How to protect your home network and devices

Use a password manager or a security key

Create passwords with more than eight characters that include capitals and numbers. Never use the same password twice; if you struggle to remember them all, use a password manager.

Need more help? Here are some devices that can help you defend your data:

YubiKey Security Key NFC

This tiny device adds an extra layer of security to your smartphone. When you want to log in or make a purchase, you simply tap YubiKey against your device.

InvizBox 2 Privacy and Security Router

This compact router offers instant VPN protection and access to the Tor anonymity network. InvizBox 2 also keeps the data from each connected device separate, so hackers can’t leap around your network.

Fortigis Cybersecurity AI VPN Router

For complete protection across your whole network, consider Fortigis. This intelligent router provides VPN protection, along with a built-in firewall, and smart antivirus software.

Dojo Internet Security Device

Dojo uses AI to learn your online habits. The device then uses this information to spot unusual activity, such as you might expect from a hacker.

Syfer Network Protection Device

This plug-in-and-play device offers instant security on your home network. Syfer utilizes VPN protection and artificial intelligence to block threats, while the built-in ad blocker stops those annoying pop-ups.

GlocalMe G3 Mobile WiFi Hotspot

If you’re away from home and not sure about the local Wi-Fi network, GlocalMe G3 offers a safe alternative. This pocket-sized device lets you create a personal hotspot, with a direct connection to mobile networks.

How to protect your digital world

Cyber crime is here to stay, so it’s worth investing in security. Have you ever been hacked? Share your story with other readers in the comments.

The Gadget Flow Daily Digest highlights and explores the latest in tech trends to keep you informed. Want it straight to your inbox? Subscribe ➜

Mark is best known for writing about apps, but he also loves the tactile, hardware side of technology. Being a professional photographer, he's pretty handy with a camera, and he's a self-confessed tweetaholic.
1
Join the Discussion

You Might Also Like

10 Useful content creator gadgets for podcasters and audio creators

10 Useful content creator gadgets for podcasters and audio creators

Of all the types of content creators, podcasters and audio creators have some of the most unique gadget needs. The world of audio is vast, and there are countless tools available to help you create and edit your content. And,..
Experience the ultimate Tesla camping adventure with the Tentsla X1

Experience the ultimate Tesla camping adventure with the Tentsla X1

Go glamping with your Tesla when you have the Tentsla X1 Tesla camping solution. This Tesla camping tent creates a cozy outdoor spot for you and your Tesla. It’s weather-resistant, portable, quick to set up, and more. Want a camping..
Smart notebooks, tablets & smart pens to bring your handwritten notes into the digital era

Smart notebooks, tablets & smart pens to bring your handwritten notes into the digital era

There’s something about the physical aspect of handwriting your notes. Many swear it helps them remember information better and come up with new, creative ideas. So, if you feel limited by laptop or smartphone notetaking, check out these smart notebooks,..
NanoFoamer PRO: the game-changing hands-free microfoam maker for coffee lovers everywhere

NanoFoamer PRO: the game-changing hands-free microfoam maker for coffee lovers everywhere

Enjoy a latte art masterpiece with every espresso when you have the NanoFoamer PRO automatic microfoam maker. It creates microfoam milk without a steam wand, letting you add frothed milk to your coffee without a large espresso machine. Love sipping..
Turn your crowdfunding success into a thriving e-commerce storefront: A step-by-step guide

Turn your crowdfunding success into a thriving e-commerce storefront: A step-by-step guide

Congratulations on a successful crowdfunding campaign! Your hard work and dedication paid off. Now, transition to a thriving e-commerce storefront. This article will guide you through the steps to transform your campaign into a thriving e-commerce storefront, covering essential aspects..
These gaming gadgets will make your game nights power-packed and comfortable

These gaming gadgets will make your game nights power-packed and comfortable

Game night is already your favorite night. But it’s about to get even better with these gadgets for power-packed and comfortable gaming nights. Yes, you can play for hours when you have a comfortable chair and an ergonomic headset. Ditto..