In 2025 there are few technological inventions people rely on more than home Wi-Fi. The wireless internet technology keeps us connected via our smartphones, tablets, laptops and all other manner of devices, not to mention making sure our TVs, heating and other important systems stay online and working 24/7.
But once you’ve signed up to broadband and have got your Wi-Fi router working, how often do you do any technical spring cleaning?
The chances are not very often. But according to one expert, there are five things everyone with a Wi-Fi router should do immediately that could improve your home network’s security.
Internet comparison service Broadband Genie is warning that millions of Brits are unknowingly leaving their Wi-Fi routers – and by association, their devices and sensitive personal data – open to potential cyberattacks.
In new research conducted with security stalwart McAfee, Broadband Genie said it found 47 percent of internet users are vulnerable to hackers by virtue of the fact they have never adjusted any of their Wi-Fi routers factory settings.
“Many default settings can be dangerous in the hands of cybercriminals,” said Oliver Devane, Senior Security Researcher at McAfee. “Your router is the gateway to all the connected devices in your home, so it’s key to make sure it’s secure, and that means updating the settings as well as employing best practices.
“Just like changing the lock on your front door, changing the default router password will ensure only authorised people can access your home network.”
Alex Tofts of Broadband Genie has shared five tips for all UK Wi-Fi users that can be easily followed, and when done so could improve your internet security.
“Tweaking your router’s default settings may sound daunting, but it’s straightforward and only takes a few minutes,” said Tofts. “To get started, access your router’s control panel. Printed on your router will be a web address, enter this into your browser.”
After following this instruction, you’ll then be able to complete the following five changes, as explained by Tofts:
Change your network encryption settings
“Your router will display different encryption types. This is the Wi-Fi security protocol your router uses to scramble and secure data transferred over its wireless network. Make sure the password type is set to ‘WPA2’ or ‘WPA3’ and not ‘WEP’.
Set and change your passwords
“The router administrator password controls access to your router settings, it’s also often set to an insecure default password, which will likely be the same for all routers from that manufacturer. Change this and the Wi-Fi password. These are well known and wouldn’t take long for a hacker to gain access”.
Change your network name
“A default network name will likely give away your provider and the make of your router. Changing your network name adds another barrier to keep away hackers. Pick anything you want, and have some fun. You could change it to ‘Batman’s Cave’ or ‘Hogwarts Castle’ as long as your household can identify it as your home connection.”
Update your router’s software
“Software is what routers use to operate, and over time, manufacturers will update or make new features. This requires the user to run an update. We found over 8 in 10 have never done this. Some newer routers may do this automatically, but don’t risk it”.
Check who’s using your network
“The average UK household will have about 12 devices connected to the Wi-Fi. When you log in, you can see what and who are connected. If you spot anything you don’t recognise, boot it off and update your passwords if you haven’t already.”