Network security, no matter whether you are working from the office or home, is crucial for protecting your data and keeping your internet-linked activities private. In simpler terms, network security is all about protecting your broadband connection against any unauthorised user or hacker who may misuse your internet connection to perform illegal activities. With various sensitive points in the network, it is tough to know whether everything is secured appropriately. So, is your internet safe and how can you discover the loopholes? There are various measures to keep in mind to secure your broadband connection, irrespective of whether you are at your workplace or at home.
Steps to ensure a safe and secured broadband connection –
Here are some of the crucial and simple measures to check if your broadband connection is secure. Let’s dive deep into them –
Firewall testing
The first thing to check is if your internet security has a firewall. The major motive for using a firewall is to protect the ports on your desktop from uninvited intruders and hackers. And so, testing such ports is essential to assure no unauthorised users can access your internet. After testing, if you see that your firewall doesn’t endow adequate protection you must switch to a secure one.
Review the antivirus
With an antivirus, you can keep a thorough check of your downloads to be sure that nothing suspicious slips into your desktop. Thus, it is a smart approach for you to assure its dynamic for doing the job efficiently. Note that, if you opt for a poor antivirus, then it may be tough for it to identify dangers as they often do not show up and taint your personal computer. To subscribe to an ideal internet service provider and get hold of the best antivirus for your device, you can approach Spectra.
Opt for a WPA3/ WPA security protocol
While you use an internet broadband connection in your city, you must ensure that the network has a WPA3/WPA (WIFI-protected access) protocol. Such security protocols smoothly encrypt your activity, which makes it difficult for an unapproved user to track anything. WPA3 is one of the latest secure protocols similar to a VPN (a virtual private network).
WP3 helps to keep all your online activities hidden even if you are using an extremely weak Wi-Fi passcode, making it easier to connect to any device. Thus, if your connection has WPA and WPA2 security protocols, it is recommended to layer the same with a VPN for additional security.
Get a passcode-protected network
Having control over your internet connection means it must be passcode protected and private. A private network permits you to control who can use your data. This is necessary for network speed and security. The initial step is to rename your network and create a strong passcode.
Often, internet routers come with a default administrator passcode from an ISP (internet service provider). So, ensure to change to a strong and unique password that no one can guess.
Encrypt your internet connection with a good VPN
VPN or virtual private network uses encryption to hide your internet-linked activities and your IP address, which makes your actions and location untraceable. Ensure to invest in a good VPN.
Devices linked to your internet connection are reliable
At home or the workplace, each one of you ought to use an electronic device whether a smartphone, personal computer, or laptop with the current operating system (OS) and a strong antivirus. Anyone using an unlimited internet plan must undergo mandatory online protection training. Doing so can assist in lowering the chances of anyone succumbing to the act of phishing.
In case you are working from a public place, you must use a VPN. This would protect your data while using a public Wi-Fi network.
What are the important points to keep your broadband network secure at your home?
Keeping your home broadband network secure is one of the top priorities crucial for the reasons listed below –
∙ To maintain the privacy of your data and smooth streaming of various activities online.
∙ To stop any cybercriminal or a hacker from reaching out to your network to misuse it and conduct fraudulent activities.
∙ In case anyone in your neighbourhood or an outsider gets an idea or access to your broadband connection, then your internet speed may reduce and hamper your work drastically.
∙ To protect your devices and network from viruses, ensure to keep scanning your desktop, laptop, or smartphone periodically.
Additional ways to protect yourself online –
Even if you hold a secure network to a legitimate site, your info may be compromised owing to data breach. Or you may be tricked to share your account or personal info on the phone or desktop through text or email, allowing unknown to access your personal account. To prevent such a happening, mentioned here are some of the additional security best practices you must ensure to factor in.
Use a unique password – If you are using a unique and strong password for all your accounts online, you do not have to fret about hackers getting access to your multiple accounts on occasion when they compromise one of your online accounts. With a password manager, you can set a unique and strong password easily.
Be careful when you connect to a public WI-FI – Use public WI-FI only for browsing activities that are not personal to you. For opening a personal account or checking your business account or e-mail, ensure to use a safer option. You can use your mobile network if you require signing into your personal account or making a quick purchase using your net banking or credit card when not at home.
Recognise fakes – Criminals can target you through smishing, vishing and phishing activities to trick you to share your information. You can also be prompted to hit on the malware link. If you do this, then the fraudster may take over your personal device, constantly spy on you and misuse your personal information. So, ensure to identify fakes and be away from them.
So, whenever you use your broadband connection, you must remember the security aspects and ensure to take all the necessary measures. You may even approach your internet service provider; in case you require any advice linked to security. Additionally, if you use internet outside where you are not connected to your home broadband connection, ensure to follow the above-mentioned additional ways to protect yourself and your data online.