Protecting your WiFi network is essential to prevent unknown people from connecting to it and consume your bandwidth or compromise your security. There are effective methods to block the access to your WiFieven if someone discovers the password. Here’s how to limit access and secure your Internet connection.
Enable access control list (ACL)
One of the safest ways to control who accesses your WiFi network is enable access control list (ACL) on your router. This tool allows you to block access to unknown devices by using MAC addresses.
1. Access your router settings: Enter your router’s IP address in the browser to open the configuration interface. Typically, these IPs are `192.168.0.1` or `192.168.1.1`, although it may vary depending on the manufacturer.
2. Look for the access control list or MAC filtering option: This function is usually in the security or advanced settings section of the router.
3. Add the MACs of the authorized devices: Can restrict access only to devices whose MAC address you have registered in the access listpreventing any other computer from connecting to the network, even if it knows the password.
Disable SSID broadcast
Hide your WiFi network name (SSID) It’s another step to secure your connection. When you disable SSID broadcast, your network will not appear in automatic WiFi searches on nearby devices.
1. Disable SSID broadcast in router settings: In most cases, you can find this option in the WiFi or wireless settings section of your router.
2. Manual connection to the network: Authorized devices will need you to manually enter the network name along with the password to connect, making access difficult for those who don’t know the SSID.
Activate WPA3 authentication
If your router supports WPA3, be sure to use this security protocolwhich is the most advanced currently and reduces the vulnerability of your network to brute force attacks and other hacking methods.
1. Configure the network to use WPA3: Change the security settings on your router’s interface, selecting WPA3 as the authentication method. Older devices may not support this protocolso you should evaluate if you need to update your router.
2. Avoid using WPA or WEP: These authentication methods are outdated and can be easily hacked. If your router does not support WPA3, opt for WPA2, which is more secure.
Control access using the maximum number of connections
Some routers allow set a maximum number of devices that can simultaneously connect to the network. This setting allows you to limit how many computers can access your network at any time, blocking additional devices, even if they know the password.
1. Adjust the limit in the router’s advanced settings: Define the maximum number of devices allowed on your network. When the limit is reached, any further connection attempts will be blocked.
2. Real-time monitoring: Some modern routers offer applications that allow you to monitor connected devices in real time and manually eject those you do not recognize.
Implementing these measures can effectively protect your WiFi networkeven in case someone knows the password. A combination of MAC filters, the use of WPA3, disabling the SSID, and constant router monitoring ensures that your network remains private and secure.
Keep reading:
– WiFi 7: Reasons why it is worth taking the leap and buying a new next-generation router
– What is the device that consumes the most WiFi at home?
– How to know your neighbor’s WiFi password to be able to connect