A safer home office network

The router

• Change the admin password. The password to manage the router should not be the one printed on the sticker.
• Update the firmware. Turn on automatic updates if the router has them. Very old routers that no longer get updates should be replaced.
• Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption for Wi-Fi, never an open network or the old WEP option.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password and change it if many people have had it over the years.
• Turn off remote management and WPS, the push-button pairing feature, unless you need them.

The devices

• Keep work devices separate from smart TVs, speakers, games consoles and children’s devices. A guest network for the smart devices is an easy way to do it.
• Do not share the work laptop with family members.
• Lock the screen when you step away, even at home.

The work connection

• Use the company’s remote access tools as instructed, such as a VPN or secure remote access app.
• Keep work files in company systems instead of saving them to the home computer or a personal cloud account.
• Print carefully. Printed work documents at home should be stored and disposed of properly.

If you are not sure how to change router settings, your internet provider can usually help, or ask IT.