3 Home Networking Mistakes and How to Fix Them

If you’re a homeowner, chances are you have a wireless home network. And as consumer technologies continue to grow in waves, more and more devices are finding their way to that network, creating a world of convenience as well as risk if your network isn’t properly secured.

As you grow your smart home in St. Augustine, Florida, it’s important that you consider the safety of your network and avoid granting access to potential hackers. In this blog, we’ll cover three common home networking installation mistakes and how to avoid them. Just keep reading for more.

SEE ALSO: Introduction To Home Network Installations: What You Need To Know

Mistake 1: You’ve Left Your Wi-Fi Settings in Default Mode

Your router is like a digital doorway to your home, so it’s important to secure it with a complex, customized password in order to prevent unwanted intruders from accessing your network. Many people will know the default admin name and password that is provided when you purchase a router, so changing that name and password immediately after setup is crucial to ensure your network is safe.

If your router has a guest access feature, be sure to disable it right away if you do not plan on using it. If you want to keep it active, change its default password and turn off access once your guests leave.

Mistake 2: You’re Not Regularly Checking for Firmware Updates

Many routers don’t change their firmware automatically, so it’s important to regularly check for crucial updates that could patch up holes in your network security. Updates to your router’s firmware are necessary not only for increased security but for your network’s performance as well. Because firmware updates are not automatic, make sure you know your router’s process of receiving updates as it can vary per brand. 

Mistake 3: You’re Not Using Trusted Brands

From choosing your router to selecting smart devices that will connect to your Wi-Fi, make sure you are working with brands that show full commitment to the integrity of their products and services. Knockoff brands or new companies with no security specialists may ignore security basics and put vulnerable products on the market, leaving your devices susceptible to potential hackers.

In other words, don’t skip your research. To ensure a secure and reliable network, look for products that will put safety first so you can have peace of mind when controlling your smart home.

A reliable home network not only guards your devices against harm, but it also supports continuous and efficient use of all your growing smart-home devices. Our team members at Alpha Dog are network installation experts and take pride in providing strong, robust home networks for our clients.

If you’re questioning the security and performance of your home network, we encourage you to reach out to our team! Just click the “Contact Us” tab at the bottom of your screen or send us a live chat to start talking to a team member today.