If you use the Internet without any cybersecurity measures, you are exposed to various risks. Besides viruses and malware, hackers are also more prevalent than ever. Therefore, it’s crucial to implement some security measures if you want to avoid experiencing data breaches and financial loss.

Here is everything you need to know about cybersecurity threats and safeguarding your Wi-Fi connection. Also, learn how to set up a VPN on a router to boost your network security further.

Cybersecurity Risks in the Online World

Do you apply any security measures on your Wi-Fi network? If not, you face a significant risk of getting a virus or other type of malware. Moreover, there is a high chance that it will spread to other devices in your home. This includes smartphones, tablets, and even smart TVs.

Your data can be compromised, especially when you encounter a hacker. And you should not worry only about your financial data. If you have important documents and files on your devices, they can be locked, and you will lose access to them.

Cybercriminals often target sensitive documents. Ransomware, for example, is among the most common types of cybercrimes committed in the digital world. Cybercriminals can also intercept and exploit the unencrypted data transmitted over your Wi-Fi network. This will result in various data breaches—especially if you work remotely—and even identity theft.

Spyware is another malware commonly employed by cybercriminals to target unsecured Wi-Fi connections. It can result in data loss and financial, reputational, and other damages. Therefore, it is imperative to safeguard your Wi-Fi connection at all times, and you can do so in various ways.

Protecting Your Wi-Fi Connection at Home

Avoid using outdated or weak encryption protocols to protect your Wi-Fi connection and deter would-be attackers. For example, nowadays, WEP is considered a weak protocol.

Set up your Wi-Fi network with solid encryption instead, such as WPA2 or WPA3. Check out your login credentials on your Wi-Fi. If you use default credentials, change them. Come up with a solid and unique password to prevent unauthorized access.

Routes have built-in firewall systems to monitor and filter incoming and outgoing network traffic. Ensure this feature is active in your settings to add an extra layer of protection. You should always remember to keep your router’s firmware updated. Updates come with various security patches and bug fixes so that cybercriminals can’t exploit it.

Lastly, you should set up a VPN to further boost your cybersecurity. A VPN app can mask your IP address, protect your privacy, and encrypt your data. It also comes with several other benefits. For example, if you want to experience less lag on games, you can use your VPN to change your IP address to another country and test different ping levels. If you want to enjoy geo-restricted content, a VPN’s location change feature will also help you gain access to it.

How To Set Up a VPN on Your Router at Home

Before learning how to set up a VPN on your router, you must choose a reputable provider that offers router compatibility. Find providers using the OpenVPN protocol, which is common in VPN router configurations.

Also, remember to check out the provider’s reviews and features and decide if they fit your needs well. Once you have chosen a VPN provider, you should install the VPN firmware. Keep in mind that some companies have custom-made firmware for specific routers.

The VPN provider will send you instructions on installing the firmware, so you don’t need to worry. Once you have installed the VPN firmware on your router, you should configure your settings. Check your router’s settings on a device with access to a web browser.

Once you are here, locate the VPN section and enter the credentials that were provided to you. Once you finish this configuration, save the changes and restart your router so that those changes go into effect. Now, you are set! All your internet traffic is encrypted and safeguarded.

Finishing touches

It is easy to test your VPN connection. Verify your IP address online and see if it reflects your actual IP or the one provided by the VPN server. If the IP address displayed isn’t your true one, then you have a successful connection and can browse the web anonymously and safely. Any device that connects to the internet through your VPN router will also receive the same benefits.

Still, you should be mindful and careful about the websites you visit or what you download on your devices. By prioritizing security, you can browse the web with confidence.